gambling

A longitudinal study published in the journal International Gambling Studies states that boys and girls who play videogames with gambling-like elements, such as tool boxes, are more likely to gamble with real money in the future. The lead researcher warns that, to protect minors, regulation should go ‘beyond loot boxes, including a variety of gambling-like elements, such as social casino games, prize wheels, and gambling videos.’

According to a Lancet Public Health commission on commercial gambling, stricter regulations are needed on a global scale to reduce its impact on health and wellbeing worldwide. The authors argue that the harms caused by gambling are a threat to public health, exacerbated by the rapid expansion and digital transformation of the industry. These harms include physical and mental health problems, increased risk of suicide, gender-based violence and financial problems.