The Relationship Between Online Gambling Addiction Behavior with Anxiety Levels Among Adolescents in Madiun City

Abstract

Online gambling is increasingly prevalent among adolescents and may negatively affect mental health, particularly anxiety. This study aimed to examine the relationship between knowledge of online gambling risks, addictive gambling behavior, and anxiety levels among adolescents aged 17–24 years in Madiun City, Indonesia. A quantitative cross-sectional design was applied with 95 respondents selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using validated questionnaires to assess knowledge and online gambling behavior, while anxiety was measured with the Zung Self-Anxiety Scale. Kendall’s Tau test was used for analysis. Findings showed no significant association between knowledge of online gambling and anxiety (p = 0.271). However, addictive gambling behavior was significantly related to anxiety levels (p = 0.001). These results suggest that although adolescents may be aware of the dangers of online gambling, such knowledge does not necessarily influence their anxiety. In contrast, addictive behaviors contribute substantially to anxiety symptoms.

This study highlights the need for interventions focusing on behavioral change through education, internet regulation, and psychosocial support for adolescents. Longitudinal studies are recommended to further explore thecausal relationship between online gambling addiction and adolescent mental health.