Double The Money: A Hermeneutic Phenomenological Study Of Personal Finance Experiences Of Student Online Gamblers

Online student gambling has become a phenomenon in recent years that attracted significant attention due to its increasing prevalence and the multifaceted challenges it poses. This study aims to explore the personal finance implications of online gambling among students, a concern that has been widely recognized by researchers, educators, and policymakers. This study is grounded in pragmatism and anchored by Social Learning Theory and Digital Addiction Theory, exploring the lived experiences of eight students from different colleges and universities in Davao City who engage in online gambling. By employing hermeneutic phenomenology, the research captures the participants’ narratives to gain insights into their motivations, coping strategies, and the financial impact of their gambling habits. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, this research contributed to the understanding of online gambling’s impact on students’ financial behaviors and the broader implications for academic, social, and personal outcomes. The study on student online gambling found and highlighted the significant role of social influences, such as peer pressure, family members, and media representations, in shaping gambling behaviors, aligning with Bandura’s Social Learning Theory. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing different phases of gambling behavior, from initiation to the chasing phase, with tailored interventions aimed at reducing risks and promoting healthier coping strategies. The study suggests incorporating financial literacy education, offering counseling services, and establishing peer support systems to help students manage gambling issues. Furthermore, the research advocates for stricter regulations on online gambling and advertising to protect vulnerable populations, such as college students, and stresses the need for further research into risk factors and effective interventions.