A Digital Counter-Gambling Intervention for Online Gambling Students Using Interactive Mobile Application Messaging

Abstract

Gambling Disorder (GD), particularly in its online form, presents a significant public health concern, especially among young university students in contexts like Kenya. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a strategy for promoting responsible online gambling among second- and third-year students at Kisii University. Utilizing a diagnostic design across three phases, the research first investigated the prevalence and patterns of Online Gambling Disorder (OGD) among a randomly selected sample of 500 students (429 respondents, 86% response rate) using the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS) and Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI). Based on this diagnosis, a structured digital intervention framework, named the ICGIM system, was designed and developed. The system’s creation followed an iterative methodology grounded in User-Centered Design (UCD) and Agile principles, incorporating insights from behavioral psychology and stakeholder consultations. The intervention was then implemented over 12 weeks with students identified as pathological or high-risk gamblers. A post-intervention evaluation assessed the system's effectiveness and usability. Results indicated that the ICGIM system was effective in reducing gambling frequency. Key features, including daily motivational messages, a call sponsor function, and chat support, were highly valued for providing emotional and psychological support, reinforcing positive behavioral change, and enhancing accountability. The findings underscore the potential of a tailored digital intervention, integrating automated and human-centered support mechanisms, to mitigate online gambling disorder within a university student population.