Peran Peer Communication Judi Online dalam Memengaruhi Keterlibatan Remaja

This research was motivated by the researcher's interest in the rampant online gambling phenomenon in Kebomas District, Gresik Regency. The Gresik Police have successfully uncovered 19 online gambling cases in Gresik City, with Kebomas District being one of them. The researcher interviewed five informants who had been or were currently affected by online gambling practices caused by peer communication. These five informants consisted of three students and two workers aged 19-25 (late teens). The purpose of this study was to determine the role of peer communication in influencing adolescent involvement in online gambling practices in Kebomas District.

The primary theory used in this study is Albert Bandura's Social Learning Theory, which states that human learning occurs not only through direct experience but also through observation of the behavior of others. Persuasive Communication Theory serves as a supporting theory, examining how verbal and nonverbal messages are conveyed to persuade, influence, or change attitudes to act according to the communicator's wishes. This research employed a qualitative approach, and the researcher employed a case study. A case study aims to understand a phenomenon comprehensively using various data sources, such as interviews, observations, and documentation.

The results of this study indicate that adolescent involvement in online gambling can be influenced by peer communication, which involves direct invitations, stories of experiences, and the exchange of information during play. This process can foster interest, behavioral imitation, and even motivation in late adolescents to gamble.