Gambling Addition among University Students in Nigeria: The Impact on their Mental Health and Academic Performance

The study examined gambling addition among university students in Nigeria: the impact on their mental health and academic performance. Gambling addition is a growing concern among university students in Nigeria, with significant implications for their mental health and academic achievement. Three research questions were raised in the study. Survey design was adopted for this study. The population of the study consists of all students of Delta State University, Abraka. Simple random sampling technique was used to arrive at a sample size of 600 out of the total population. A self structured questionnaire titled “Gambling Addition among University Students Questionnaire – GAUSQ”. The researcher administered a total of 600 questionnaire to randomly selected respondents in the study area. Simple percentage, mean scores, standard deviation were used to provide answers to the research questions. Descriptive statistics was used to test the hypotheses formulated. The study therefore concluded that gambling addiction among university students is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach to address its far-reaching consequences. This study has highlighted the alarming prevalence of gambling addiction among university students with significant implications for their mental health and academic performance. Based on the conclusion, it therefore recommended that government, parents, policy-makers and other stakeholders should implement evidence-based gambling education programs to raise awareness about the risks and consequences of gambling addiction among university students. Develop and enforce policies and regulations to restrict access to gambling venues and online platforms, particularly among university students.