Examining the influence of gambling intensity on college students’ wellbeing and academic engagement: A case of Tanzania Public Service College (TPSC) Tanga

Yuda Kyara; Rashid Zawadi

doi:10.51867/AQSSR.3.4.62

Authors

Yuda Kyara Institution: Tanzania Public Service College (TPSC) Author https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4921-8705
Zawadi Rashid Institution: Tanzania Public Service College (TPSC) Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51867/AQSSR.3.4.62

Keywords:

Academic Engagement, College Students, Gambling Intensity, Students’ Wellbeing, Spot Betting

Abstract

This article explores the growing phenomenon of gambling among college students, focusing on how gambling intensity affects their well-being and academic engagement. Using a case study of Tanzania public service college (TPSC)-Tanga campus. The research employed a quantitative cross-sectional research design to assess the prevalence and impacts of gambling intensity among the college students. Data were collected from students at TPSC, which constitutes a population of 1,482, where 94 respondents were selected using simple random sampling techniques using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive analysis was used to examine students’ participation in gambling, gambling intensity, and their reported academic, psychological, financial, social, and behavioral experiences associated with gambling activities. The results of this study indicate that substantial participation in gambling is common among college students, and this greater gambling intensity is associated with negative outcomes for both students' well-being and academic engagement. The majority, over 85%, of respondents reported that gambling interfered with their concentration and study routine, while more than 93% experienced depressive feelings after losses. Respondents also reported the intensified gambling led to debt accumulation and challenges in managing personal finances. In addition, gambling was associated with social difficulties, including the study revealing that the existence of conflict with the family and friends and loss of trust within their social context disrupted their sleeping patterns. Therefore, gambling intensity is an important issue that needs attention in the college environment because it is associated with student well-being and academic engagement. College may therefore need to be addressed, as its intensity is critical when designing prevention and intervention strategies in academic settings.

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