Online gambling in Ontario has seen a significant uptick in recent years, with the Ontario government betting big on the industry to bring in revenue for the province. However, this move has not come without its consequences, particularly when it comes to the impact it is having on youth.
According to a recent study conducted by the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, youth aged 14-24 are increasingly turning to online gambling as a form of entertainment and, in some cases, as a means to make money. The study found that nearly 10% of youth in this age group had participated in online gambling within the past year, with the most popular form being sports betting.
The rise of online gambling among youth can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the convenience and accessibility of online platforms, as well as the proliferation of gambling advertisements on social media and other online platforms. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated this trend, with many youth turning to online gambling as a way to pass the time during lockdowns and social distancing measures.
The Ontario government’s decision to expand online gambling in the province has only fueled this trend. In April of this year, the government announced plans to launch a new online gambling platform, which will allow residents of Ontario to place bets on sports events and other forms of gambling from the comfort of their own homes. This move is expected to bring in significant revenue for the province, with estimates suggesting that online gambling could generate up to $500 million in annual revenue.
However, critics warn that the expansion of online gambling in Ontario could have serious consequences, particularly when it comes to the well-being of youth. Studies have shown that young people are particularly vulnerable to the harms of gambling, with research suggesting that gambling can lead to a range of problems, including financial difficulties, mental health issues, and even addiction.
In response to these concerns, some advocates are calling on the Ontario government to implement stricter regulations around online gambling, including bans on advertising to youth and measures to prevent underage gambling. They argue that the government has a responsibility to protect vulnerable populations, including youth, from the potential harms of gambling.
Despite these concerns, the Ontario government remains committed to its bet on online gambling. In a statement, Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy defended the decision, stating that online gambling is a legal and regulated activity in Ontario and that the government is taking steps to ensure that it is conducted in a responsible manner.
As online gambling continues to grow in popularity, it is clear that the impact it is having on youth is a cause for concern. With the Ontario government’s push to expand online gambling in the province, it is more important than ever for policymakers to consider the potential risks and implement measures to protect vulnerable populations, including young people, from the harms of gambling.
