Social predictors of sports betting among youths in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
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Date
2022-12
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Published by Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Opole University of Technology, Poland, in cooperation with University of Balearic Islands
Abstract
Background. Sports betting has been shown to be escalating among youths in developing countries. However,
there is still insufficient information on the predictors of sports betting among this particular social group. The
aim of this study was to examine social predictors of sports betting among youths in Ilorin, Kwara State, North
Central Nigeria. Material and methods. A cross-sectional community survey was conducted among 470 youths
from Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Social predictors of sports betting (SPSB) were evaluated using a 23-item
questionnaire consisting of three parts: Part I - socio-demographic variables (age, gender, employment status);
Part II –items on sports betting engagement (SBE); and Part III - items on family influence, peer influence, and
media influence. Frequency and percentage, the phi coefficient, and binary logistic regression were used for
analyses. Results. The findings revealed a weak relationship between sports betting and family influence (=.218);
a moderate relationship between sports betting and peer influence (=.523), and a moderate relationship between
sports betting and media influence (=.559). Gender and employment status were significantly associated with
sports betting (p < .05). Conclusion. The study showed that family influence, peer influence, media influence,
and employment status were predictors of sports betting among Nigerian youths. Gambling regulatory bodies,
parents, educators, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) should sensitize young people on the dangers
of engaging in sports betting as a sustainable source of income.
Key words: sports betting, social predictors, youths
Description
Sports betting has been shown to be escalating among youths in developing countries. However,
there is still insufficient information on the predictors of sports betting among this particular social group. The
aim of this study was to examine social predictors of sports betting among youths in Ilorin, Kwara State, North
Central Nigeria.
Keywords
sports betting, social predictors, youths
Citation
Joel, K.1., Dike, D. O., Nji, G. O., Iwuagwu, T.E., & Awosika., M. O (2022). Social predictors of sports betting among youths in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Journal of Physical Education & Health, 11, 20, 23-32. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8079785