Parental concerns about the risks associated with harmful industries for their children

Abstract Background Harmful industries including tobacco, vaping, alcohol, and gambling are causing significant harms to communities, including children and young people. These industries try to resist reform by deflecting blame and shifting responsibility, often by suggesting that parents need to educate and protect their children. This study aimed to explore parents’ current concerns and risks relating to these industries and their children, and their attitudes about responses to prevent harm. Methods Australian parents (n = 455) who had at least one child aged between 11-17 years were invited through a panel company to complete an online qualitative survey. Participants were asked about their concerns and risks relating to each product, if and what they discuss about these products with their children, and who was responsible for protecting children from these industries. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Results Parents were concerned about the short- and long-term consequences of their children engaging in these products. Many parents tried to talk to their children about the risks, however also believed that their child was influenced by their peers, and messages they see on social media. Although parents recognised their own role in protecting their children from harmful industries, they thought that a collective approach was needed, which included greater regulations and more effective education. Conclusions Parents are trying their best to protect their children from the harms associated with tobacco, vaping, alcohol, and gambling. However, they feel as though they are unable to counter the range of ways that their children are exposed to and influenced by these industries. Governments need to listen to parents and implement comprehensive regulations restricting marketing practices and increase evidence-based education that focuses on the tactics and harmful practices of these industries. Key messages • Harmful industries try to shift blame and put responsibility for protecting children onto parents. However, parents feel they are unable to counter the positive messages that their children see. • Parents are concerned about the range of risks these products could have for their children and want to see a collective response to address this issue, including government policy intervention.