22% of gamblers in Spain are aged under 25.

The Spanish General Directorate for the Regulation of Gambling’s latest report on gambling prevalence for 2022-2023 highlights a significant increase in young gamblers, with 22% of gamblers in Spain now under the age of 25.

Despite evolving gambling regulations, gambling among young people continues to rise. The report underscores growing concerns, especially in regions like Galicia, where youth gambling addiction is increasingly prevalent. On National Gambling-Free Day, organizations across Spain emphasized the urgent need for targeted prevention programs aimed at adolescents, who often begin gambling influenced by peer pressure.

While new regulations in Galicia have reduced the number of physical betting shops, other gambling channels remain popular. Many young people are introduced to gambling through video games featuring “loot boxes,” which can normalize gambling behaviors early on. This exposure often progresses to more traditional forms of gambling, such as scratch cards and sports betting. Alarmingly, nearly 12% of Spaniards aged 18 to 25 who gamble online show signs of gambling-related problems, reinforcing the need for proactive prevention.

Online Gambling and Youth Addiction

Research by support organizations indicates that the average starting age for gambling in Spain is 18.5, with youth gambling addiction on the rise. The growth of online gambling has exacerbated the problem, with internet-based gambling now accounting for nearly half of all cases treated, up significantly from 32% before the pandemic. Dual addiction cases, where gambling is combined with other dependencies, are also becoming more common.

Experts at the Universidad Internacional de La Rioja have highlighted that the rapid gratification and digital nature of modern gambling games evoke strong emotional reactions, increasing the risk of addiction among youth. The immediate and uncertain nature of online games activates brain circuits associated with addiction, similar to those triggered by substance abuse.

Additionally, associations have reported an increase in the use of microcredit, allowing young people to access quick funds for gambling. This often results in debt that can be difficult or nearly impossible to manage, further compounding the challenges faced by young gamblers in Spain.

The findings underscore the importance of comprehensive prevention measures and targeted support to mitigate the growing impact of gambling on young people.