Exploring Peer Influence and Sports Betting Among College Students
Presenter(s)
Robert O. Spain
Abstract
Sports betting has become increasingly popular among college students following the legalization of sports wagering and the rapid growth of mobile betting applications. Platforms such as PrizePicks, Betr, and Underdog allow users to place bets instantly, making gambling more accessible and socially normalized within college environments. This literature review examines scholarly research to better understand the motivations, attitudes, and risks associated with sports betting among college students. A major theme throughout the literature is the relationship between risky decision-making and peer influence. Risk behavior theory explains that young adults are more likely to engage in activities that offer excitement or potential financial gain despite known negative consequences. Within college settings, peer groups play a significant role in reinforcing these behaviors. Students are frequently exposed to friends discussing bets, sharing winning tickets on social media, or encouraging others to “tail” their picks, which can create pressure to participate and normalize gambling as a routine social activity. Research also identifies several factors that increase the likelihood of risky betting behavior. Male students, individuals with higher levels of impulsivity, and those motivated by entertainment or financial gain are more likely to engage in frequent betting. Participation in fantasy sports has been linked to greater involvement in sports gambling, suggesting that fantasy platforms may serve as a gateway into real-money wagering. Emotional decision-making and overconfidence in sports knowledge further contribute to students underestimating the risks associated with betting. Despite the growing body of research, gaps remain in understanding how social media and digital peer networks amplify sports betting behavior and influence long-term gambling habits. Overall, the literature suggests that sports betting among college students is shaped not only by individual risk-taking tendencies but also by strong social pressures and normalized peer behaviors. These findings highlight the importance of educational initiatives and peer-focused prevention strategies that promote responsible gambling and increase awareness of the potential financial consequences of sports betting.
College
College of Liberal Arts
Department
Communication Studies
Campus
Winona
First Advisor/Mentor
Adam Gaffey
Location
Kryzsko Great River Ballroom, Winona, Minnesota; United States
Start Date
4-23-2026 2:00 PM
End Date
4-23-2026 3:00 PM
Presentation Type
Poster Session
Format of Presentation or Performance
In-Person
Session
2b=2pm-3pm
Poster Number
60
Exploring Peer Influence and Sports Betting Among College Students
Kryzsko Great River Ballroom, Winona, Minnesota; United States
Sports betting has become increasingly popular among college students following the legalization of sports wagering and the rapid growth of mobile betting applications. Platforms such as PrizePicks, Betr, and Underdog allow users to place bets instantly, making gambling more accessible and socially normalized within college environments. This literature review examines scholarly research to better understand the motivations, attitudes, and risks associated with sports betting among college students. A major theme throughout the literature is the relationship between risky decision-making and peer influence. Risk behavior theory explains that young adults are more likely to engage in activities that offer excitement or potential financial gain despite known negative consequences. Within college settings, peer groups play a significant role in reinforcing these behaviors. Students are frequently exposed to friends discussing bets, sharing winning tickets on social media, or encouraging others to “tail” their picks, which can create pressure to participate and normalize gambling as a routine social activity. Research also identifies several factors that increase the likelihood of risky betting behavior. Male students, individuals with higher levels of impulsivity, and those motivated by entertainment or financial gain are more likely to engage in frequent betting. Participation in fantasy sports has been linked to greater involvement in sports gambling, suggesting that fantasy platforms may serve as a gateway into real-money wagering. Emotional decision-making and overconfidence in sports knowledge further contribute to students underestimating the risks associated with betting. Despite the growing body of research, gaps remain in understanding how social media and digital peer networks amplify sports betting behavior and influence long-term gambling habits. Overall, the literature suggests that sports betting among college students is shaped not only by individual risk-taking tendencies but also by strong social pressures and normalized peer behaviors. These findings highlight the importance of educational initiatives and peer-focused prevention strategies that promote responsible gambling and increase awareness of the potential financial consequences of sports betting.
Comments
Spain, Robert O