Loredana Marchica

Dr. Loredana Marchica, a pediatric psychologist specializing in youth gambling at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, dives into the alarming intersection of gaming and gambling. She discusses how online games, particularly loot boxes, mimic gambling mechanics, luring younger players into risky behaviors. Marchica highlights the psychological impact of reward systems and the role of social media in normalizing gambling concepts. Family communication and education on gambling risks are vital as children navigate this blurred landscape, making awareness and prevention key in combating this growing issue.

Dr. Loredana Marchica, a pediatric psychologist and psychiatrist, sheds light on alarming trends of youth gambling linked to online gaming. She discusses how game mechanics like loot boxes create addictive behaviors, often blurring the lines between gaming and actual gambling. The rising rates of problem gambling among young people in Canada are concerning, as these games exploit biological and psychological factors. Marchica emphasizes the need for awareness, education, and open discussions about gambling risks in families.