The Use of Social Studies Education in Curtailing the Menace of Gambling among University Students as Educational Solution to Societal Renewal

Values serve as standard for social interactions among members of a particular group of people. They are manifested in the attitude and behavior of the people. This study discussed gambling and how it has eroded the core values of the society. The aim is to suggest ways of curtailing the menace through Social Studies education as an educational solution to societal renewal. The concept of gambling was looked at. The causes of gambling, such as societal attitude towards gambling, pauperism, the desire to acquire material wealth, breakdown in moral values, legalization of gambling platforms among others, were discussed. The effects of gambling, such as loss of learning interest, social disorder, juvenile delinquency, poor academic performance, family dysfunction and domestic violence, liquor and substance issues, mental health circumstances, Suicide, and suicide ideation among others, were examined. The study also X-rayed the efficacy of the role of Social Studies education in curtailing gambling among university students in Nigeria. It was recommended among others that ethical issues should be emphasized during the teaching and learning of Social Studies. Universities should organize periodic seminars for students on the effects of gambling regarding their academic performance, and the Government should engage the youth by empowering them in profitable activities which bother on vocational training.