Impacts of social media usage on youth gambling in Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to investigate the social media usage and the gambling behavior of the youth, as well as to examine the impact of social media usage on youth gambling in Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya. Essential data are collected through in-depth interviews. The sample group consists of 20 key informants representing 16 to 25-year-old youth in Phranakhon Si Ayutthaya Municipality, including junior high school students, high school students, and undergraduate students in both public and private schools. Purposive sampling is used for the selection of the sample group, which includes individuals who have engaged in gambling.

The results indicate that the sample group uses social media on their smartphones during their free time every day. Facebook is the most accessed application/website, followed by Line, which is used for chatting, and Google for information searching. The study also reveals three reasons for initiating gambling: being invited and persuaded by friends, a penchant for risk-taking, and playing for fun and relaxation. Most participants began gambling with poker, lottery, illegal lottery, dice, and cockfighting. They frequently use social media for various gambling purposes, including searching for information for a bet and using it as a platform or tool for betting.

The findings regarding the relationship between youth social media usage and their gambling habits suggest that gambling youths often turn to social media for gambling activities because it provides them with comfort and a sense of security from police inspections. However, this behavior has adverse effects on their studies and health as they can gamble at any place and time through social media. Additionally, it leads to strained relationships with friends and family due to broken promises to repay debts. The most severe consequence is the neglect of their own families due to gambling addiction.