Review article
https://doi.org/10.20471/jan.2026.62.01.06
Problem Gambling Prevention for Children, Adolescents and Young Adults: a Narrative Literature Review
Lea Kozina
; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Zagreb, Croatia
Zrnka Kovačić Petrović
; University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Zagreb, Croatia; Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Aim: Numerous consequences of problem gambling (PG) affect individuals and families, so prevention of PG among the youngest is of high importance. This review points to the preventive interventions for children, adolescents and young adults based on multidimensional constructs to draw a comprehensive picture of this growing field. Materials and Methods: PubMed and Google Scholar were utilized to research literature and 17 studies met inclusion criteria. Results: Results show that PG prevention for adolescents and children are mostly school-based programs, which are primarily effective in improving the knowledge about gambling, correcting cognitive misconceptions, superstitious thinking and strengthening healthy attitudes. Programs that produce behavioural changes are those with an integrated prevention approach. Prevention among young adults is based on brief interventions providing feedback to those involved. Conclusion: The methodology in applied studies varies greatly, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions. Future studies on PG preventive interventions should follow consistent measurement of prevention outcomes, as exact behavior changes.
Keywords
Adolescent; child; young adult; primary prevention; gambling
Hrčak ID:
344463
URI
Publication date:
10.2.2026.
Visits: 338 *