In-game purchases and microtransactions are the monetization systems of many free online video games. They offer a wide variety of virtual goods that can make gameplay more enjoyable or give the player some sort of advantage within the game. Several studies have shown that these in-game purchases can be problematic for some players.

For example, one study showed that ทางเข้าUFABET: ความปลอดภัยและความเชื่อมั่น players who made unplanned in-game purchases spent more money than their monthly allowance. This was the case whether or not these in-game purchases were made for a particular purpose, such as to gain new items to use within the game. Another study found that adolescents who made unplanned in-game purchases experienced more hyperactivity and inattention compared to non-purchasers. These findings suggest that knowing whether or not a teen makes a planned or unplanned purchase could be a useful method for characterizing maladaptive gaming behavior.

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Video game designers often design their games to trick players into making unplanned purchases. For instance, developers employ a psychological principle called variable rate reinforcement that involves giving the user unpredictable rewards. This is important because the dopamine system enjoys uncertain rewards more than predictable rewards. Video game developers also frequently offer expiring rewards or items that the player must act quickly to claim. This creates a sense of urgency and scarcity that motivates the player to spend more in-game currency on these offers.

A number of studies have shown that people who make in-game purchases are at a higher risk for gambling disorder. This is because many video games involve a type of gambling where the player wagers virtual coins on the outcome of a randomised event.