How to Start the Conversation
Talking about gambling and gambling-like elements in video games doesn’t have to be intimidating. Start by getting clear on your own stance about underage gambling and what’s shaping that perspective. It helps to understand that young people are at higher risk than adults; their brains are still developing, particularly the parts that manage impulse control and decision-making. Be ready to set age-appropriate boundaries and follow through with consequences.
Here are some practical ways to open the conversations:
- Make It Part of Everyday Life
You don’t need a formal, sit-down talk. Bring it up naturally—during a commercial for a betting app, while watching a game together, or when your teen mentions a video game purchase.
Example: “I saw an ad for sports betting during the game. Have you or your friends ever talked about trying that?”
- Ask Open-Ended Questions
Instead of lecturing, ask questions that invite your teen to share their thoughts and experiences.
Example: “What do you think about all those gambling ads we see now? Do you know anyone who bets on games?
- Listen Without Judgment
If your teen opens up, listen more than you speak. Avoid reacting with anger or panic, which can shut down the conversation. Demonstrate that you’re a safe person to talk to and can provide a judgment free space.
- Share Facts, Not Fear
Help your teen understand the risks in a clear, factual way. Talk about how gambling works (the odds are always in favor of the house), how it can affect mental health and relationships, and why it’s illegal for minors.
- Set Clear Expectations
Be clear about your family’s values and rules around gambling. Explain why you’re concerned and what behaviours are off-limits.
Model Healthy Behaviour and Language
Young people learn as much from what you do as what you say (Afifi et al., 2016). Be mindful of your own gambling habits and how you talk about gambling in your household. If you buy lottery tickets, play poker with friends, or bet on sports, explain your limits and decision-making process out loud.
Example: “I’m buying one lottery ticket for fun, but I’ve set a $5 limit. I know the odds of winning are really low, so this is just entertainment, not a way to make money.” Avoid glamorizing gambling wins or normalizing losses as “no big deal.” Instead, frame gambling realistically: as a form of entertainment that costs money, not a financial strategy.
If someone in your family has struggled with gambling, use that as a teachable moment for recognizing warning signs and seeking help.
Be mindful of your language. Avoid judgmental terms like “addict” or “problem gambler” when discussing people who struggle. Instead, use person-first language like “someone experiencing gambling harms.” This reduces stigma and makes it easier for your teen to come to you if they’re concerned about themselves or a friend.
Example: “Uncle Mark went through a tough time with gambling, but he got help and he’s doing better now. It’s important to recognize when something stops being fun.”
Afifi, T. O., Nicholson, R., Martins, S. S., & Sareen, J. (2016). A longitudinal study of the temporal relation between problem gambling and mental and substance use disorders among young adults. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 61(2), 102-111. https://doi.org/10.1177/0706743715625950