Exposure of adolescent and youth to Gambling advertising: a systematic review

Abstract

The possible negative effects of Gambling Advertising (GA), especially in Adolescents and Youth (A&Y), generate social alarm. A systematic review of the research on advertising and gaming at A&Y in the last 10 years was carried out, following the PRISMA guidelines, including 31 studies. The results highlight that A&Y, against the law, frequently participate in gambling, with some having gambling problems. The GA is varied and intense, especially on TV, sporting events and social networks, also targeting A&Y, although they are often critical of it. It affects more young men and people with inappropriate gambling behaviors, consolidating those behaviors. The main contents try to normalize gambling and highlight profits (social or economic). The levels of recall as well as the attitudes about the GA are associated with increases in gambling intentions, behaviors, and problems. The most effective incentives to gamble include economic promotions. Publicity seems to have an effect, albeit reduced, to improve the attitude towards gambling and increase participation in it, but it is difficult to identify its effects in the medium and long term. More studies on gambling and advertising are necessary, especially in Spain.