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Risk Factors Associated with Gambling on Loot Boxes
Francisco J Sanmartín1, Judith Velasco, Mario Gálvez-Lara
1University of Córdoba (Spain), Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research of Córdoba (Spain), Reina Sofia University Hospital (Spain).
Psicothema
|October 26, 2023
Summary
Risk factors for loot box (LB) engagement were examined. While social influences predicted free LB use, gambling history and social factors did not predict purchasing. Both groups showed high impulsivity and sensation-seeking.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Digital Media Studies
Background:
- Loot boxes (LBs) are virtual items with unknown rewards, sharing features with gambling.
- Previous research highlights LB-gambling associations but overlooks specific risk factors.
- This study investigates gambling-related risk factors in the context of LB engagement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine risk factors associated with gambling, applied to loot box (LB) use.
- To identify predictors of purchasing versus free engagement with LBs.
- To compare psychological traits between gamblers, LB purchasers, and free LB openers.
Main Methods:
- A self-report survey was administered to 253 participants.
- Participants were categorized into three groups: gamblers, LB purchasers, and free-LB openers.
- Key variables included past-year gambling, social influences (family/friends), trait impulsivity, and sensation-seeking.
Main Results:
- Social influence (family/friends using LBs) predicted higher engagement in opening free LBs.
- Past-year gambling or social influence did not predict increased LB purchasing.
- Gamblers, LB purchasers, and free-LB openers exhibited similar high scores for impulsivity and sensation-seeking.
- Loot box users demonstrated higher sensation-seeking scores compared to gamblers when controlling for group overlap.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest distinct risk profiles for different types of LB engagement.
- The results can inform the development of targeted prevention and intervention strategies for loot box users.
- Understanding these risk factors is crucial for addressing potential harms associated with virtual economies in gaming.
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