The impact on children
One of the most significant ways that gambling affects children is financial. Parents who are addicted to gambling often spend large amounts of money on their habit, leaving little or nothing left for their children. This can lead to financial instability, relationship breakdown, a lack of resources for basic needs such as food, clothing, and housing. In extreme cases, it can even result in homelessness.
Children of gamblers may also suffer emotional effects. They may feel a sense of shame or stigma because of their parent’s addiction, leading to social isolation and a lack of close relationships. They may also feel a sense of abandonment or neglect if their parent is spending more time gambling than with them or meeting their needs. This can lead to low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness.
The stress and anxiety that comes with living with a gambling parent can also have physical effects on children. They may experience sleep problems, weight loss or gain, and even physical symptoms such as stomach aches and headaches.
Children are exposed in the digital world through social media, adverts during sporting events and interactions with friends. However, a child experiencing a parent’s mood swings, lack of communication, or attention to what they need, due to being distracted by their phone and /or gambling, will feel neglected and unloved.
If a parent gambles, it makes this behaviour seem normal. Parents are role models for their child and growing up in an environment that encourages taking a risk for instant reward rather than achieving what you want through hard work and reward, gives a child a negative message.