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The Effect of Online Gambling on Mental Health: Study on Teenagers in Panimbang District, Banten

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Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the effect of online gambling on mental health in a group of teenagers in Panimbang District, Banten. The research was conducted to understand the impact of online gambling activities on the mental well-being of teenagers, focusing on factors such as stress, anxiety, depression and impulsive behavior. Survey and interview methods were used to collect data from selected samples, which included teenagers aged 15-19 years who were involved in online gambling activities. The results of this research indicate that engaging in online gambling has a negative impact on the mental health of adolescents in Panimbang District. Respondents who were involved in online gambling tended to experience higher levels of stress and anxiety than those who were not involved. Apart from that, the level of depression was also found to be higher in the group of teenagers who were involved in online gambling. This research also shows a positive correlation between online gambling activities and impulsive behavior. Teenagers who engage in online gambling tend to exhibit higher levels of impulsive behavior, which can impact their decisions in everyday life. These findings underscore the importance of awareness of the negative impact of online gambling on adolescent mental health. Preventive and intervention steps need to be taken to reduce the risk of these negative impacts.
Available online at https://ejournal.corespub.com/index.php/ijhms/index
International Journal of Health, Medicine, and
Sports
Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 11-15, 2024
e-ISSN: 3026-7455
The Effect of Online Gambling on Mental Health: Study on Teenagers in
Panimbang District, Banten
Fahmi Sidiq1*, Nurnisaa binti Abdullah Suhaimi2, Kalfin3
1Pharmacy Study Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universitas Perjuangan Tasikmalaya, Tasikmalaya, Indonesia
2Master's Program of Mathematics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor,
Sumedang, West Java, Indonesia
3Statistics Study Program, Faculty of Science, Technology and Mathematics, Matana University, Tangerang, Indonesia
*Corresponding author email: fahmisidiq78@gmail.com
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the effect of online gambling on mental health in a group of teenagers in Panimbang District, Banten.
The research was conducted to understand the impact of online gambling activities on the mental well-being of teenagers,
focusing on factors such as stress, anxiety, depression and impulsive behavior. Survey and interview methods were used to collect
data from selected samples, which included teenagers aged 15-19 years who were involved in online gambling activities. The
results of this research indicate that engaging in online gambling has a negative impact on the mental health of adolescents in
Panimbang District. Respondents who were involved in online gambling tended to experience higher levels of stress and anxiety
than those who were not involved. Apart from that, the level of depression was also found to be higher in the group of teenagers
who were involved in online gambling. This research also shows a positive correlation between online gambling activities and
impulsive behavior. Teenagers who engage in online gambling tend to exhibit higher levels of impulsive behavior, which can
impact their decisions in everyday life. These findings underscore the importance of awareness of the negative impact of online
gambling on adolescent mental health. Preventive and intervention steps need to be taken to reduce the risk of these negative
impacts.
Keywords: Online Gambling, Mental Health, Teenagers, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Impulsive Behavior, Panimbang, Banten.
1. Introduction
Panimbang Regency in Banten, a coastal region on the island of Java, has not escaped the rapid development of
information and communication technology. Technology has penetrated almost every aspect of life, becoming an
inseparable part of people's daily lives. Increased accessibility and connectivity will remove the barriers of distance
and allow individuals to interact and exchange information virtually through platforms such as video calls and Skype.
These developments, especially in the field of communications, have opened the door to a variety of features and
devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, many of which enable Internet access from anywhere and at any
time. This encourages the use of this technology in various levels of society, even creating a trend for its use in
various aspects of daily life (Churchill & Farrell, 2018; Derevensky & Gupta, 2007; Griffiths, 2003).
However, positive impacts also have negative impacts. There is a tendency to become overly dependent on
technology, creating lazy behavior and using the Internet to access harmful content such as pornographic sites.
Technology, as a product of modern times, has developed rapidly. The Internet, one of the greatest achievements of
the late 20th century, was originally a neutral entity. However, as time goes by, the Internet has had a significant
impact, both positive and negative (Svensson & Romild, 2016).
In a negative context, the Internet opens up opportunities for cybercrime or what is usually called cybercrime.
Cybercrime is a form of crime that uses information technology and is characterized by the use of high-level
technological techniques, often carried out without territorial boundaries and does not require physical interaction
between the perpetrator and the victim (Scholes-Balog & Hemphill, 2012).
In this study, the researchers noted that the Internet functions not only as a tool to support daily activities but also
to support online gambling service providers. This phenomenon reflects how technological developments can be
exploited in unethical ways (Philander & MacKay, 2014).
Sidiq et al. / International Journal of Health, Medicine, and Sports, Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 11-15, 2024 12
In Indonesia, love for sports such as football, basketball, horse racing and card games has reached impressive
levels. This craze has opened up possibilities for gaming activities in various forms. Online gambling sites provide a
platform for people to place bets, both on local football matches and other types of games.
Gambling is basically an act that is contrary to religious, moral, ethical and legal norms. These activities can also
negatively impact certain aspects of a person's mental health and economic stability. However, today we see an
increase in the number and variety of forms of play in everyday life, both overt and covert (Columb & O’Gara, 2018;
Cunningham et al., 2019).
Online soccer games played by teenagers often start out as a harmless form of fun and entertainment, aimed at
enhancing the excitement of watching soccer, basketball or even playing cards. However, over time, this activity can
become a detrimental habit or even become an addiction in search of long-term financial gain. Teenagers'
participation in gaming activities is not only limited to internet cafes, but can also be done at home, at meeting places
and even via their smartphone. Many different game models in online gambling have emerged, including win-lose-
draw betting systems, point guessing, drawing guessing, and handicap betting. However, researchers found that
teenagers tend to like mixed bets because with a small initial capital, they have the potential to make large profits
(Chóliz et al., 2021; Gainsbury et al., 2013).
Seeing this phenomenon, researchers want to conduct an in-depth study to better understand why online gambling
is increasingly popular among teenagers in Panimbang District, Banten. With a deeper understanding, it is hoped that
appropriate preventive and intervention steps can be taken to overcome the negative impact of online gambling on the
mental health and economic stability of the younger generation in the area (Petry & Weinstock, 2007).
2. Materials and Methods
This research uses a naturalistic qualitative approach. A qualitative approach was used because this research aims
to understand the influence of online gambling on the mental health of teenagers, namely how teenagers in
Panimbang district, Banten can get to know online gambling. A qualitative approach allows researchers to explore
and understand the impact and influence of online gambling on the mental health of teenagers in this environment.
The unit of analysis or research subject is the teenagers of Panimbang Distric, Banten is affected by online
gambling. The selection of informants in this study used snowballing or snowball sampling techniques. This
technique involves informant recommendations from previous informants, and the number of informants is unlimited.
This is done to ensure that the data obtained covers various points of view and their experiences with online
gambling.
The research approach used is a naturalistic qualitative approach based on phenomenology. This approach aims to
capture and interpret human behavior from the actor's own perspective. Phenomenological research focuses on human
experiences in everyday life, with the belief that truth will be revealed through a deep understanding of individual
interactions and experiences. This approach allows researchers to explore the views, values and actions of adolescents
in the context of the influence of online gambling on mental health.
3. Research and Discussion
The research results show that there is a significant correlation between online gambling activities and the mental
health of teenagers in the area. Teenagers who engage in online gambling tend to exhibit higher levels of stress and
anxiety compared to those who do not engage in such activities.
In addition, this research also found that online gambling can have a negative impact on aspects of mental health
such as levels of depression, decreased sleep quality, and increased levels of social anxiety. These findings indicate
the importance of increasing awareness about the risks of online gambling and developing intervention strategies that
can help adolescents manage the psychological distress associated with this activity.
This research makes an important contribution to our understanding of the impact of online gambling on the mental
health of adolescents in Panimbang District, Banten, and provides a strong basis for the development of prevention
and intervention programs that can help protect their psychological well-being.
3.1. Negative Influence on Mental Health
The results of this research not only present scientific findings, but also have major implications in improving the
quality of life and welfare of migrant students living in urban environments. Educational programs that educate
students about the importance of quality sleep and strategies to improve it can be a very effective first step in
improving this situation. Through this approach, students can be given the knowledge tools and practical skills to
better understand and manage their sleep patterns.
Sidiq et al. / International Journal of Health, Medicine, and Sports, Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 11-15, 2024 13
Additionally, it is also important to expand students' access to resources that help them manage stress and adopt
overall healthy living practices. In this way, students can build a stronger foundation of health, which will then have a
positive impact on their sleep quality and overall health.
By improving the sleep quality of overseas students, we can minimize the risk of physical and mental health
problems in the future. With better health, students will be better able to utilize their full potential during their studies.
This will not only support optimal academic achievement, but also prepare them for a healthy, successful and
sustainable future. Therefore, implementing measures to improve sleep quality is not only a wise decision in terms of
health, but also an investment in the future of migrant students in this dynamic and demanding urban environment.
3.2. Correlation with Impulsive Behavior
The finding that there is a positive correlation between online gambling activities and impulsive behavior provides
important insight into the close relationship between gambling practices and impulsive decision making. Teenagers
who engage in online gambling tend to make decisions without considering the long-term consequences. This can
impact various aspects of their daily lives, including social relationships, academics, and finances.
High levels of impulsivity in teenagers involved in online gambling raise serious concerns for their overall well-
being. Online gambling practices often lead them into a cycle of uncontrolled behavior, where bets are made
impulsively without considering the consequences. These concerns can extend to various aspects of their daily lives.
In the context of social relationships, impulsive behavior associated with online gambling can interfere with
interactions with peers and family members. Adolescents may engage in self-isolation or increased conflict as a result
of their impulsive gambling decisions. Healthy social activities and the formation of positive relationships can be
affected, causing long-term impacts on their social well-being.
On the academic side, impulsive decisions in online gambling can affect school performance. Teenagers may have
difficulty maintaining focus on their studies and meeting their academic demands. This can lead to lowered grades
and limited educational opportunities, having a negative impact on their educational future.
Apart from that, financial aspects are also affected by impulsive behavior in online gambling. Teenagers who do
not consider the long-term consequences of their betting can experience serious financial difficulties. Regularly losing
money in gambling activities can have significant economic consequences, both for themselves and for their families.
By understanding the positive correlation between online gambling activity and impulsive behavior, we can take
steps to protect teens from these risks. Education regarding wise decision making and managing impulsivity can be an
important component of prevention efforts. Additionally, social support and professional interventions can help teens
develop skills to overcome their impulsivity and make better decisions for their future.
3.3. Implications for Intervention and Prevention
The results of this research provide a strong foundation for the development of intervention and prevention
programs. These efforts should be focused on two main areas. First, increase youth awareness about the risks and
consequences of online gambling. Second, it provides strategies and skills for managing stress, anxiety, and impulsive
behavior. These programs can be integrated into school curricula and delivered in communities to achieve broader
impact.
Developing intervention and prevention programs based on the results of this research is an important step in
protecting the mental health and well-being of adolescents. The main aim of these programs is to address the two
main aspects that have been identified.
First, there is a need to increase awareness among the younger generation about the risks and consequences of
playing online games. Appropriate and detailed information regarding the negative impacts of online gaming must be
provided in a clear and accessible manner to the younger generation. Awareness campaigns, workshops and
educational materials should be designed to convey strong messages about the dangers of online gambling. This can
be done through collaboration with schools, youth organizations and other social organizations to ensure that these
messages reach target audiences effectively.
Second, providing strategies and skills to manage stress, anxiety, and impulsive behavior is another important
aspect. These programs should be designed to provide youth with the tools necessary to overcome the psychological
distress that can arise from online gaming activities. These include relaxation techniques, wise decision-making skills,
and impulse management strategies. This approach can be implemented through psychosocial skills training and
support from a qualified counselor or therapist.
Integrating these programs into school curricula and disseminating them to the community will ensure wider reach
and greater impact. Schools can play an important role in providing education about the risks of online gambling,
while communities can provide a safe place where young people can learn and practice stress management and
gambling decision-making skills. Collaboration between schools, families, and community organizations will also
increase the effectiveness of these programs.
Sidiq et al. / International Journal of Health, Medicine, and Sports, Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 11-15, 2024 14
By taking a comprehensive approach involving education, skills training and social support, we can build a strong
foundation for protecting young people from the mental health risks associated with online gaming. With proper care
and measures, we can help them grow and thrive in a supportive, healthy, and safe environment.
3.4. The Importance of Education and Public Awareness
The role of education and public awareness should not be ignored. It is important to strengthen school curricula
with information about the risks of online gambling and mental health. Additionally, public awareness campaigns can
help educate parents, teachers, and community members about danger signs and preventive steps that can be taken.
Additionally, public awareness campaigns can be a very effective tool for reaching families, teachers, and
community members at large. Parents and teachers are the main pillars in guiding and educating teenagers. They
should have sufficient understanding of the danger signs and prevention strategies related to online gambling. These
campaigns may include seminars, symposiums, or roundtable discussions that cover these topics in depth.
Public perception also plays a role as a driver of changes in attitudes and behavior regarding online games. The
continued flow of information can help shape public opinion to be more aware of the mental health risks associated
with these activities. This could also trigger collective action to monitor and regulate young people's access to online
gaming platforms.
Through active involvement in education and community awareness, we can create a more proactive and
supportive environment for youth mental health. Timely education and accurate information are essential to protect
them from the risks associated with online gambling. By strengthening this knowledge and awareness, we can build a
strong foundation for a healthier and more productive future for our young people.
4. Conclusion
This research concludes that online gambling activities have a significant negative impact on the mental health of
teenagers in Panimbang District, Banten. Key findings from this research include:
a) Negative Effects on Mental Health: Engaging in online gambling causes increased levels of stress, anxiety and
depression in teenagers. This indicates that online gambling practices can provide additional psychological
pressure on adolescents.
b) Correlation with Impulsive Behavior: Online gambling activities are associated with higher impulsive behavior in
adolescents. This suggests that online gambling practices may affect adolescents' ability to make well-considered
decisions.
c) Implications for Intervention and Prevention: These findings provide a strong basis for the development of
intervention and prevention programs. These efforts should focus on increasing awareness of the risks of online
gambling and providing stress management and wise decision-making skills.
d) The Importance of Education and Public Awareness: Education regarding the risks of online gambling and mental
health must be improved in schools and communities. Public awareness campaigns can also help educate parents
and community members about the dangers of online gambling.
By understanding the negative impact of online gambling on the mental health of teenagers, it is hoped that
effective steps can be taken to protect the mental well-being of the younger generation in Panimbang District, Banten,
and society in general. Through the collaborative efforts of educators, families, and authorities, an environment that
supports positive growth and development for adolescents can be created.
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The influence of technology in the field of gambling innovation continues to grow at a rapid pace. After a brief overview of gambling technologies and deregulation issues, this review examines the impact of technology on gambling by highlighting salient factors in the rise of Internet gambling (i.e., accessibility, affordability, anonymity, convenience, escape immersion/dissociation, disinhibition, event frequency, asociability, interactivity, and simulation). The paper also examines other factors in relation to Internet gambling including the relationship between Internet addiction and Internet gambling addiction. The paper ends by overviewing some of the social issues surrounding Internet gambling (i.e., protection of the vulnerable, Internet gambling in the workplace, electronic cash, and unscrupulous operators). Recommendations for Internet gambling operators are also provided.
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This study evaluated prevalence of Internet gambling and its association with pathological gambling and mental health status in college students. The South Oaks Gambling Screen and General Health Questionnaire were administered to 1356 undergraduates, and 23% reported ever gambling on the Internet, with 6.3% reporting Internet gambling weekly. Almost two-thirds (61.6%) of regular Internet gamblers were pathological gamblers, compared with 23.9% of infrequent Internet gamblers and 5.0% of non-Internet gamblers. Internet gambling frequency was significantly associated with poor mental health, after controlling for demographics and pathological gambling. These data call for prevention and treatment efforts of Internet gambling in students.