The comparison between the sociodemographic characteristics and the problematic internet use between gamblers and non-gamblers among university students

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study is to investigate the differences between the socio-demographic characteristics and the problematic internet use (PIU), and between problem and pathologic gamblers (PPG) and non-problem gamblers (NPG). Method: The study was administered to 299 Near East University psychology students in April-May 2015. The questionnaire includes a sociodemographic form, South Oaks Gambling Screening Scale (SOGS) and Problematic Internet Usage Scale (PIUS). Descriptive, chi-square, t-test and Pearson correlation statistical methods were used. Results: According to the study more than half of the PPG participated in gambling on the Internet. Moreover, men tended to gamble more than women. It is also found that single and high income level participants are gambling more frequently. Students attending university for more than 5 years were found to have more PPG. However, this study shows that problem and pathological gambling is seen more prevalent among students who have high income level. In this study, it is illustrated that the highest frequency of gambling occurs at casinos (77.7%), which is followed closely by betting offices (70.8%). It is also observed that gambling on games such as horse-racing and dog-racing were seen higher in people with PPG. Discussion: PIU has been seen as one of the leading causes of PPG. These studies showed that university students who had PIU were more prone to PPG problems. In order to prevent the inter-related problems of PPG and PIU, effective public health policies, awareness and consciousness programs are needed.