Being a teenager has always come with its challenges, but today's world presents a unique set of hurdles that can feel overwhelming. From the constant buzz of technology to the pressures of social media and the allure of instant gratification, teenagers are navigating a complex maze.
A staggering 50.4% of teenagers aged 12-17 report spending 4 or more hours of screen time daily. As Jonathan Haidt's work highlights, the constant presence of these devices and the endless scroll of social media can fuel anxiety and depression. Face-to-face interactions, crucial for developing social skills and deep relationships, often take a back seat.
The teenage brain is still developing, particularly the areas responsible for impulse control and decision-making. As Dr. Laurie Santos remarks, teenagers can easily fall into patterns of risky behavior that can have devastating consequences on their finances, mental health, and future prospects. The increasing accessibility of online gambling platforms has clearly worsened the problem. Since 2017, we’ve seen a 400% increase among young adults. A survey by the National Council on Problem Gambling found that between 60% and 80% of high school students reported gambling for money in the previous year. A March 2024 survey at Redwood High School in Larkspur, CA revealed that approximately 74% of male students had placed a sports bet on an online platform, despite being underage (https://redwoodbark.org/91272/sports/uncovering-the-epidemic-of-youth-sports-gambling/)
Underage students find creative and troubling ways to access gambling platforms. Many use older friends' or even family members' IDs to bypass age restrictions. Others turn to prepaid debit cards or cryptocurrency to fund accounts anonymously. VPNs and offshore sites provide further loopholes, allowing access to gambling hubs that don’t enforce U.S. age laws. In some peer groups, a designated older student might run a shared betting account, taking bets on behalf of underage friends. Social media and apps like Discord and Reddit also fuel this underground gambling network by sharing betting tips and unregulated site links.
What can be done?
Mindful Technology Use: Set time limits, designate phone-free zones (like the dinner table and bedrooms), and practice digital detoxes can help create a healthier balance. Some experts even suggest not giving teens cellphones until age 16 (after the critical period of brain development in puberty).
Reclaim Family Time: Prioritize family dinners and other shared activities. Over half of adolescents across 43 countries do not have daily family meals, yet, as Dr. Anne Fischel of The Family Dinner Project shows, teens who have frequent family dinners experience lower rates of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, and teen pregnancy and enjoy greater self esteem and resilience.
Education and Awareness: Educate teenagers about the risks of gambling and other addictive behaviors. Open conversations about the developing brain and the potential for harm can empower them to make informed choices. Treat them like responsible agents in their lives by making statements like, “You are a smart kid. Certainly you know that these companies control the algorithms so as to manipulate kids and take their money.”
Building Strong Support Systems: Encourage teenagers to build strong relationships with family, friends, and mentors who can provide guidance and support.
Education and Mentorship with Ivy College Guru
At Ivy College Guru, we understand the unique challenges teenagers face and are dedicated to helping parents and kids navigate these complex times. Our experienced mentors, like Dr. Wittje, offer personalized guidance to help teenagers develop essential life skills, make informed decisions about their futures, and build the confidence to overcome obstacles. We believe that with the right support, every teenager can unlock their full potential.