Abstract

<p>This study evaluated economic gratifications and television gaming among youths in Port Harcourt metropolis. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the economic gratifications youths in Port Harcourt derive from television gaming; analyze if television gaming acts by youths in Port Harcourt are diversionary and anti-social. Using a descriptive survey design and a sample of 370 respondents. The study adopted uses and gratifications theory and Dependency theory. The research found that television gaming among youths in Port Harcourt is not driven only by entertainment and social motives but also economic factors. The study therefore recommended that the local educators and youths counselors should involve in conducting surveys and workshop in schools to gather data and educate parents and students about the impact of television gaming. Social workers and community leaders should conduct assessments and provide intervention programs that address and mitigate any negative social impacts of gaming, ensuring a balanced and healthy engagement with television gaming. That active measures should be taken by the government at all levels, legislators, mass media, and community members to provide an accurate representation of sports betting as well as the risks involved.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>