Argentina reports a rise in risky behaviors linked to compulsive gaming among minors

Study reveals growing concerns over compulsive gaming and online betting among minors in Argentina.

The Argentine Society of Pediatrics (SAP) issued a report highlighting the increase in risky behaviors associated with behaviors related to compulsive gaming, social media use and online betting.

According to SAP, minors are increasingly seeking help for behaviors associated with compulsive use of video games, social media and online gambling. 

The reported symptoms include lack of attention, memory problems and poor academic performance. In addition, many cases present with signs of anxiety, social isolation, depression and other problematic behaviors.

A recent 2025 survey conducted by UNICEF and UNESCO, in partnership with SAP, collected responses from nearly 6,000 children and adolescents aged 9 to 17. According to the data, 95% reported owning a cellphone with internet access.

24% of adolescents surveyed indicated they had placed bets online at least once. The data also showed that this behavior increases with age and is more commonly reported among boys.

Good to know: The Buenos Aires City Lottery (LOTBA) has recently launched a campaign aiming to acknowledge the risks online gambling poses to minors

A spokesperson from SAP said, “We are facing a growing issue that demands urgent responses from the government, tech platforms and adult caregivers. This is not about demonizing technology, but about supporting and protecting our children.

This report comes after a group of Argentinian influencers was sanctioned by the City of Buenos Aires regulator, LOTBA. They were asked to participate in an awareness video as part of a symbolic reparation agreement and commit to attending an in-person training course on gambling addiction and illegal betting. 

Finally, the report encourages families to keep open communication, set clear limits, supervise device use, educate about gambling risks, promote healthy activities, watch for warning signs and model responsible technology habits.

Carlos Mendez

Writer

Odds tell a story long before the result does. When bettors learn to read that story properly, betting becomes a matter of discipline and value rather than emotion or guesswork.

Visit Profile

Players trust our reporting due to our commitment to unbiased and professional evaluations of the iGaming sector. We track hundreds of platforms and industry updates daily to ensure our news feed and leaderboards reflect the most recent market shifts. With nearly two decades of experience within iGaming, our team provides a wealth of expert knowledge. This long-standing expertise enables us to deliver thorough, reliable news and guidance to our readers.