EXAMINING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PERSONALITY CHARACTERISTICS AND GAMBLING IDEATION AMONG UNDERGRADUATES OF UNIVERSITIES IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIA.

Abstract

The expansion of online gambling platforms in Nigeria has heightened public health concerns, particularly for university students susceptible to risk-taking behaviors due to developmental factors. This study investigated the association between personality traits—impulsivity, sensation-seeking, and neuroticism—and gambling ideation among 11,631 undergraduates across six universities in Southwest Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, with data collected using the Big Five Inventory and Gambling Urge Scale. Analysis involved regression, structural equation modeling, and multivariate techniques. Contrary to expectations, impulsivity (r = -0.099, p < .001), sensation-seeking (B = -0.208, p < .001), and neuroticism (B = -0.071, p < .001) demonstrated weak negative correlations with gambling ideation, potentially reflecting cultural influences or limitations in measurement tools. These findings suggest that personality traits may not be strong predictors of gambling ideation in this population, underscoring the need for culturally adapted psychological assessments. Longitudinal studies are recommended to establish causal pathways and examine additional contextual factors. The results advocate for targeted educational interventions and regulatory measures to mitigate gambling exposure among university students.

Keywords: Personality Characteristics, Gambling Ideation, Undergraduates, Southwest Nigeria.