Youth and Gambling: Determinants and Impact on Psychological Resilience in Senegal

Over the past decade, gambling has expanded rapidly in Senegal, affecting both adults and youth. This study aims to identify the factors influencing gambling behavior and its impact on psychological resilience among young people in Senegal. Based on a representative survey of 1,560 youths aged 18–35, we performed probit regressions and propensity score matching (PSM) to assess both the determinants of gambling and its causal effect on psychological resilience. The results indicate that males are significantly more likely to gamble than females, post-secondary educated youth exhibit higher gambling propensity than those without formal education, and urban residents are more likely to gamble than rural peers. Tobacco use and sports participation show weaker positive associations, while age and labor market participation are not significant predictors. PSM analysis further reveals that gambling substantially reduces psychological resilience, particularly in perseverance and engagement, positive self-image, emotional regulation, and spirituality, with an overall decline of approximately 12%. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, including responsible gambling education, mental health support, and programs offering alternative recreational opportunities, to enhance resilience and mitigate the risks associated with gambling among Senegalese youth.