Modelling the relationship between academic performance and the level of gambling activity of university students

Abstract

As a result of the introduction of online gambling sites in Kenya such as casino, sport betting, poker, lotteries etc. Research has demonstrated that this gambling sites are more prevalent among college students (Jacobs, 2000). The vast majority of individuals can gamble without experiencing ill effects that leads to development of a gambling problem. Gambling disorders are associate with numerous negative consequences and are highly correlated with other risky behaviors in college student population such as Preoccupation with thoughts about gambling, gambling more frequently, Suicidal thoughts, failing grades etc. We are interested in modelling the relationship between academic performance and the level of gambling activity of university students. Multiple linear regression model was used in this study where the dependent variable is the student performance and independent variable was the various gambling activities. The target population was the undergraduate students with a sample size of 384 students obtained through stratification. Data was collected by using a closed-questionnaire. Data entry and analysis was done using SPSS statistical software where by the parametric tests carried out was chi-square test of independence, t-test and F-test. The results of the study contributed to literature works that address the challenges faced by the students who engage in gambling and possible solutions was suggested. The findings indicate that there were significant relationships between student academic performance and the hours spend by respondent in gambling, frequency of gambling by respondents, respondent taking alcohol as a result of gambling, and respondent missing classes due to gambling. These findings from the study illustrate the importance of institutions in further examining how levels of student gambling activity may adversely impact academic performance.