Risk Factors Associated with Gambling in Young Adults: A Systematic Review Protocol

Background Gambling is increasingly getting recognised as a public health problem, with young adults (18–25) being identified as a particularly vulnerable group due to their ongoing neurodevelopment and increased exposure to spreading gambling environments. Individuals who adopt problematic gambling behaviours can either classify as problem gamblers or can in more severe cases meet the criteria for a clinical diagnosis for Gambling Disorder (GD). Different characteristics and traits, known as risk factors, can influence the development of these conditions. This review aims to evaluate the quantitative studies investigating risk factors contributing to problematic gambling behaviours in the young adult populations. Methods A systematic review guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology will be conducted. This review will consider quantitative and mixed-methods, where quantitative data can be extracted, evidence published from 1990 onwards on risk factors which are associated with gambling in the young adult population. Four databases will be searched as well as grey literature. Methodological quality will be assessed using the JBI critical appraisal tools based on the study designs of each study. Data extraction will be conducted using the JBI standardised extraction tools. The risk of bias will be assessed using the Quality in Prognostic Studies (QUIPS) tool to evaluate the risk-factor-outcome relationship. Discussion Gambling Disorder and Problem Gambling are a growing public health concern. The results of this review are anticipated to benefit researchers, clinicians and policymakers by providing a better understanding on key predictors of gambling-related harm in this population which would then aid in informing early intervention and prevention strategies. Protocol registration number PROSPERO 2026 CRD420261288057.