Advisers

Jolly A. Miguel, EdD

Discipline

Psychology

Abstract

The rapid growth of digital media has increased students’ exposure to online gambling ads, about how ads influence gambling attitudes and financial decision-making. Study examined influence of online gambling ads on gambling attitudes and financial risk-taking behavior among selected students from the CASE department at Bestlink College of the Philippines. Anchored in Social Cognitive Theory and the Input-Process-Output (IPO) model, the study explored how repeated exposure shapes beliefs and subsequent financial actions. A descriptive-correlational research design using a quantitative approach by utilizing purposive criterion sampling, data gathered from seventy (70) students aged 18 to 24 with frequent exposure to online gambling. Data collected via a validated Likert-scale questionnaire and analyzed using frequency distribution, weighted mean, and Spearman’s rho correlation due to non-normal data distribution. Results revealed students "Sometimes" encounter gambling ads (Composite Mean: 2.07), highest exposure occurring on Facebook (Mean: 1.83) and by influencer endorsements (Mean: 1.89). Ads significantly influence attitudes normalizing gambling for young adults (Mean: 2.04) and fostering "belief in winning" (Mean: 2.10) that supersedes financial caution. They engaged in financial risk-taking "Sometimes" (Composite Mean: 2.62), frequently making impulsive financial decisions (Mean: 2.30). Statistics confirmed significant positive relationship between gambling attitudes and financial risk-taking (rs = 0.57, p < 0.001). While ad exposure correlates attitudes (rs = 0.23), it does not directly cause risky behavior. Study concludes online gambling ads indirectly influence financial risk-taking behavior, with cognitive shifts in attitude serving essential bridge to impulsive action. Findings highlight for strengthened digital media literacy, financial education, and mental health support to reduce students’ vulnerability to gambling-related risks.

Keywords

Financial Literacy, Online Gambling Advertisements, Gambling Attitudes, Financial Risk-Taking Behavior, Social Cognitive Theory, Student Wellness