Personality Traits of Internet Gamblers in Northwest Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study

Ahmad Abubakar; Adebiyi Adegbemi Olusegun; Adebayo Sunday Adebisi; Sale  Shehu

doi:10.5455/EJSRR.20250215013400

Abstract
Background: Internet gambling has been a growing concern globally, with potential implications for mental health and behavioral patterns. This study examines the relationship between personality traits and internet gambling behavior among individuals in Sokoto, Northwest Nigeria. Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving 390 online internet gamblers. The selection of the participants was done using the cluster sampling method, and data collection was done using the Big Five personality factors and South Oak gambling screening questionnaires. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23 for Windows, and the level of significance was set at p≤0.05. Results: There was a high prevalence of neuroticism [299 (76.7%)], particularly among probable pathological gamblers (55.6%). Other traits such as extraversion, conscientiousness, agreeableness, and openness to experience were less prevalent. No statistically significant relationship was found between personality traits and internet gambling behavior (p > 0.05). Conclusion: In this study, we found a high prevalence of neuroticism among probable pathological gamblers, followed by extraversion, conscientiousness, agreeableness, and openness to experience.

Key words: Keywords: Internet gambling, personality traits, neuroticism, pathological gambling