Pathways to understanding problem gambling among adolescents.

BACKGROUND

Gambling among youth is attracting the attention of health experts worldwide. A need has arisen for more research on the pathways to the development of adolescent problem gambling behavior and related factors.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted, and structure equation modeling was used to analyze data from the Korea Problem Gambling Agency to predict problem gambling among 1,474 adolescents aged 13-18 years.

RESULTS

Structural equation modeling showed that gambling accessibility and media exposure are associated with heightened sensation-seeking tendencies, which are related to stronger irrational gambling beliefs. The mediating associations of these factors play a significant role in predicting adolescent problem gambling. Additionally, ecological influences, including gambling accessibility and media exposure, show associations with the reinforcement of irrational gambling beliefs among adolescents. Although impulsivity was increased due to media exposure, it was not a significant mediator among gambling accessibility and media exposure, irrational gambling beliefs and problem gambling.

CONCLUSION

Understanding adolescent problem gambling requires a comprehensive approach that considers both ecological and individual factors. To effectively reduce adolescent problem gambling, collaboration among researchers, policymakers, schools, parents, and adolescents is essential.