Risky loot box behaviors and gambling disorder among Chinese adult purchasers: A network analysis approach

Abstract

Background

The growing popularity of loot box has attracted increasing research attention regarding its potential risky use and associations with gambling symptomatology. The present study aimed to explore whether and how risky loot box behaviors are associated with the symptomatology of gambling disorder.

Method

A non-probability sample of 699 Chinese adults (52.1 % males; M_age = 29.30, SD = 7.83) voluntarily completed an online anonymous survey.

Results

Bivariate correlational analyses revealed significant positive associations of overall gambling disorder severity with risky loot box behaviors (p < 0.001). Network analysis further identified “Unsuccessful efforts to control gambling” as the most central symptom within the network, followed by “Relying on others for financial bailouts”. “Put off important activities to earn or buy loot box” was found to be the strongest bridge symptom, followed by “Compulsive loot box opening”. Significant gender difference was found in gambling disorder, but not with risky loot box behaviors. Network comparison test also revealed no gender differences in network structures.

Conclusion

The present research filled in the knowledge gap regarding symptomatic associations between risky loot box behaviors and gambling disorder. Its findings highlighted consistent positive associations between behavioral indicators of risky loot box use and gambling disorder severity, while network analysis identified inability to stop gambling and relying on others for financial bailout as the two most influential symptoms. Future loot box preventive measures will benefit from these insights, by improving self-control through educational workshops and facilitating responsible loot box purchasing.