Better Digital Parenting 2024 CyberSafeKids - Manual / Resource - Page 19
B e tte r D i g i t al Paren ting
C y b e r Sa fe K i d s
Going Deeper:
Gam(bl)ing
Problem gambling rates are on the rise
amongst young people in Ireland, with
prevalence doubling among 15-16 year
olds in less than 5 years*. Early exposure
is often linked to the development of
problematic gambling habits and young
people can be exposed to gambling
through the video games they play, even
those aimed at very young children.
Video games can normalise gambling
with casino imagery, betting with virtual
currency and randomised purchases
(paid loot boxes).
It is important to:
Research popular games young people are playing
to assess if they are suitable before playing, e.g. look
for warning labels for Gambling or In-game purchases
(includes random items) and casino imagery.
Agree on spending
rules and limits up
front - less frequent
purchasing is better.
Remove payment
details from consoles/
stores or set up
spending limits using
parental controls.
Monitor behavioural
changes around their
gameplay, such as
increased secrecy
or anxiety.
*Ref: ESPAD, 2019
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