It is definitely a problem when a teenager is gambling with money that is not even theirs, however most of the time this is just part of what being a teenager is about, as when we were that age we did all kind of crazy things that when we think about it the first thing that comes to our minds is what were we thinking? However an adult that is also in that situation is a completely different thing, as they are immersed in a very unhealthy dynamic with their family by not earning their own money at that age.
That's exactly the point, so IMO, no blame to cast here. As a teenager, you can get some pocket money from your parents, or you could even have some rich uncles and aunts that can give you anything you want as long as you just ask them for money, they can give you. Yeah, it is quite understood that teens do some sort of crazy stuff and cannot really take the blame for all. As a teen, you can decide to do anything with the pocket money you receive, whether you use it to buy some snacks, play video games, or gamble. The reason is that you are not yet old enough to be dependent on yourself or start making your own money. But for an adult, it does not make any sense to still be fully dependent while the person is not disabled. Perhaps the person is physically and mentally fit but just too lazy to work, make money, and use their money to do whatever they please.
Teens, in many ways, are the "underdogs" of the life election. They're given pocket money, much like campaign funds. And just like any novice politician, they're prone to mistakes, scandals (like buying too many video games), and learning curves
Now, I get your sentiment about adults. Imagine a seasoned politician still seeking donations for a campaign they have no intention of running. It's puzzling. If they're equipped (mentally and physically) and have experience, why not be self-sufficient? However, everyone's life trajectory is a unique campaign. Some find their momentum later; some earlier