The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has launched a national campaign to help parents identify and mitigate underage gambling risks. This initiative follows Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) findings that children who gamble face double the risk of developing problem gambling in adulthood. The campaign provides digital guidance and multimedia resources developed alongside the Health Service Executive (HSE) Addiction Services to help families recognize early warning signs.
The Link Between Youth Betting and Future Harm
Research commissioned by the GRAI from the ESRI establishes a clear correlation between early exposure to wagering and long-term behavioral issues. The study found that 64% of adults surveyed had gambled before age 18. Among this group, engaging in betting as a minor increased the likelihood of developing a gambling problem in later life by 83% to 87%.
The data also highlights generational patterns. Individuals who grew up with a parent who gambled were 80% more likely to struggle with gambling themselves. This aligns with broader trends; according to the Gambling Commission, nearly one in eleven adults experienced harm in 2024 due to someone else’s gambling activities.
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The ESRI study suggests that because young people have developing brains with underdeveloped impulse-control systems, they are vulnerable to the factors that make gambling appealing.
Identifying Hidden Risks in Digital Spaces
Modern gambling is no longer confined to traditional betting shops. Anne Marie Caulfield, CEO of the GRAI, noted that the 24/7 availability of online platforms makes it easy for the warning signs to be hidden. The GRAI guidance encourages parents to look for behavioral shifts, such as mood swings or increased secrecy regarding money.
The regulator is also urging guardians to look beyond standard betting apps. Loot boxes and randomized reward mechanisms embedded in popular video games often function as entry points into gambling behavior. By initiating age-appropriate conversations early, the GRAI suggests parents can better equip children to handle these risks.
Legislative Enforcement and Industry Accountability
This campaign is a component of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, which introduces protections for minors. The legislation grants the GRAI expanded powers to enforce penalties on operators who fail to implement age-verification systems or adhere to advertising restrictions.
The GRAI has adopted a phased approach to implementation. As of February 2026, the regulator began accepting applications for betting licenses. The process requires operators to meet requirements regarding product design and user safety. This shift mirrors international efforts; in March, Norway introduced a four-year action plan focusing on school and club outreach and training for coaches, educators, and healthcare professionals to help identify gambling harms early.
If you suspect a child is struggling with gambling, the GRAI recommends contacting the HSE Addiction Services for professional support and intervention resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the early warning signs of underage gambling?
Parents should watch for sudden changes in behavior, such as mood swings or increased secrecy regarding money. The GRAI also advises monitoring for interest in video game loot boxes.
How does the 2024 Act protect minors?
The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 mandates age verification, advertising restrictions, and requires operators to design products that protect children from undue exposure. It provides the GRAI with the legal authority to sanction operators who fail these requirements.
Is there a correlation between parental gambling and child risk?
Yes. The ESRI research found that individuals with a parent who gambled were 80% more likely to experience gambling problems themselves.
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