Exposure Of Adolescents And Youth To Gambling Advertising: A Systematic Review

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 gambling in 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. 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 behaviours, consolidating those behaviours. The main messages try to normalise gambling and highlight profits (social or economic). The levels of recall, as well as the attitudes about GA are associated with an increase in gambling intentions, behaviours, and problems. The most effective incentives to gamble include economic promotions. Advertising seems to have an effect, albeit reduced, to improve the attitude towards gambling and increase participation, 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.