Retrospective Assessment of Cricket-Based Online Betting Application Use Among College Students: Patterns, Expenditure, and Associated Stress
Keywords:
Online Betting, Cricket, College Students, Gambling, Psychological DistressAbstract
Cricket-based fantasy and betting applications like Dream11, Stake, and My11Circle have rapidly become popular among Indian college students, yet little is known about their impact on financial wellbeing and mental health. This retrospective cross-sectional study investigated usage patterns, monetary consequences, and psychological burden associated with these platforms among 500 college students (250 medical, 250 non-medical) from Bhopal, June-August 2025. Data were gathered through one-to-one interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. Psychological distress was assessed using the Kessler K10 scale, and gambling severity using the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI-9). Overall, 34% reported using betting apps, with significantly higher rates among non-medical students (43.6%) than medical students (24%). Most betting occurred during the IPL season. Over half (51.5%) of users reported net financial losses, with 10.2% of all participants borrowing money to fund their betting. Psychological distress scores were significantly higher among students who experienced financial losses (χ² = 18.10, p = 0.034). These findings underscore an emerging public health concern: college students face substantial risk of financial harm and psychological distress through online betting. Targeted interventions including awareness campaigns, early screening at college health centres, and counselling services are urgently needed to protect this vulnerable population.
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