The Ravaging Effects of Online Gambling on the Social Functioning of Male Breadwinners in African Families: A Case of Aviator and Soccer Betting

Abstract

Online gambling has emerged as a pervasive social challenge in many African societies, particularly through platforms such as Aviator and soccer betting. This study investigates the ravaging effects of these gambling practices on the social functioning of male breadwinners within African families. Anchored in a qualitative case study approach, the research explores how gambling undermines financial stability, erodes family cohesion and reshapes traditional gender roles. Findings reveal that male breadwinners often divert household income toward gambling, leading to economic strain, marital conflict and diminished capacity to fulfil paternal responsibilities. The addictive nature of Aviator and sports betting exacerbates psychological distress, fostering secrecy, mistrust and social isolation. Moreover, the normalisation of gambling within peer networks intensifies its impact, creating cycles of dependency that destabilise family structures. The study concludes that online gambling not only threatens individual well-being, but also compromises the collective resilience of African families, necessitating urgent policy interventions, community sensitisation and culturally grounded support systems to mitigate its destructive consequences.