In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks with Dr. Shawn Kelly, pediatrician, adolescent addictions specialist, and father of two.

Dr. Kelly shares why he co-authored a Canadian Medical Association Journal editorial on gambling advertising, the moment his own young son confused sports stats with betting terms, and why he sees this issue as a “Wild West” for youth health.

The discussion unpacks:

• How repeated exposure to betting ads normalizes gambling for kids
• Why adolescent brain development makes teens especially vulnerable
• Warning signs parents should watch for
• Practical steps families can take to build media literacy and resilience
• What policy and regulatory changes could help protect youth

Takeaways:

• The normalization of gambling advertising can significantly alter youth perceptions of sports, making gambling seem like an integral part of enjoyment rather than a risky behaviour.
• Parents should actively engage in conversations with their kids about gambling, promoting media literacy to counteract the overwhelming influence of pervasive betting ads.
• There is a concerning rise in gambling-related issues among youth, leading to increased mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, underlining the urgency for parental awareness.
• The developmental vulnerabilities of adolescents, including hormonal changes and brain maturation, make them particularly susceptible to risky behaviors like gambling.
• Schools and sports organizations have a critical role in educating youth about the risks of gambling and should integrate this topic into their existing substance use prevention programs.
• Effective regulation of gambling advertising is essential; restricting ads during youth-targeted broadcasts could significantly protect young audiences from harmful influences.

Links referenced in this episode:

• whereparents talk.com

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Canadian Medical Association Journal
• Canadian Society of Addiction Medicine
• bet365
• Alcohol Gaming Commission of Ontario

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