Rutgers Study: Over 4 in 10 US Teens Have Gambled in Past Year
First national benchmark study in 20 years finds 43% of adolescents aged 13-17 have gambled, with many showing signs of problem gambling.
A study from the Center for Gambling Studies at Rutgers University reveals that nearly 43% of American adolescents between the ages of 13 and 17 have gambled in some form over the past year. The research marks the first national benchmark study in two decades to examine gambling participation among minors in the United States.
Researchers describe the findings as an alarm for public health, noting that a significant portion of these adolescents meet criteria for problem gambling. While the exact prevalence of at-risk behavior was not detailed in the initial release, the study underscores growing concern over early exposure to gambling activities.
The data draws from a broad survey of U.S. teens, providing a much-needed update to outdated figures on youth gambling behavior. The Rutgers team emphasizes that the results should prompt closer attention from parents, educators, and policymakers.
Experts point out that adolescent gambling can lead to serious financial, emotional, and social consequences, and early intervention is critical. The study adds to a growing body of evidence that minors are increasingly engaging with both traditional and online forms of wagering.
The Center for Gambling Studies at Rutgers University plans to release further analysis on the types of gambling activities most common among teens and the demographic factors linked to higher risk. The findings are expected to inform future prevention and education efforts.
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