UGent surveys 16- to 17-year-olds about gambling
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3 Jul 2026 •
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Researchers from Deakin University and UGent are recruiting 16- to 17-year-olds for a study on the normalization of gambling, particularly in sports and online.
A study focused on adolescents’ experiences
How do young people perceive gambling-related content? Where do they encounter it most often: in sports, on digital platforms, or in their daily online lives? These questions form the basis of a study being conducted by researchers from Deakin University and UGent.
The call for participants is directed at parents of children aged 16 to 17. The researchers aim to gather insights from young participants to better understand how gambling advertising is viewed, experienced, and interpreted by this age group.
Participation takes the form of an online focus group. Each session lasts about 75 minutes and brings together a small number of participants—between three and four young people per group. Participants are invited to share their experiences and opinions on content related to gambling and betting, particularly when it appears in sports or on the internet.
The project is a collaboration between Deakin University and UGent. Researcher Monique Murray, a doctoral student affiliated with both institutions, is issuing this call for participation as part of her research on gambling, young people, and the commercial determinants of health.
The role of parents
The study involves minors. For this reason, the researchers specify that a parent or legal guardian must contact them on behalf of the interested young person.
Participation is voluntary. Families wishing to obtain more information can write to Monique Murray at the following address: mimurray@deakin.edu.au.
Previous work already focused on public health
This new study builds on previous scientific work. UGent has already been involved in research on gambling advertising and sponsorship as part of a three-year research project. This research highlighted, in particular, the need to no longer view gambling solely as entertainment, but as a public health issue.