Online Betting Addiction in Higher Education: Effects on Academic and Mental Health

This study examines the effect of online betting on university students in Bangladesh and provides a multifaceted analysis of its prevalence, academic and psychological impact, associated deviant activities, relationships between drug addiction and family dynamics. The research uses a mixed method approach and includes data from surveys and case studies, with a focus on two universities in Rajshahi City, Bangladesh. A purposive sampling method was used and 37 students from different departments were surveyed using the snowball sampling technique. The results show alarming trends, including high participation in sports betting, significant financial losses, reduced academic performance, increased psychological distress and drug addiction. The study recommends a collaborative approach between educational institutions, policymakers and families to mitigate the harmful effects of online betting on student well-being. Keywords: Gambling, Online Gambling, Online Betting, Offline Betting, University students.