청소년의 인터넷 게임 내 사행성 경험이 도박, 문제성 주식 및 코인 투자 행동에 미치는 영향

The Effects of Speculative Experience in Internet Games on Gambling and Problematic Investment Behaviors among Adolescents

This study examined the effects of Speculative Experience in Internet Games on problematic stock and coin investment behaviors among adolescents, with a focus on the mediating role of online and offline gambling behaviors. Data were collected from 2,150 adolescents through an online survey panel, and mediation analysis was conducted using the SPSS PROCESS macro (Model 4). The results revealed that speculative experience in internet games had a significant direct effect on problematic stock and coin investment behaviors. In addition, a significant indirect effect was observed via online and offline gambling behaviors. Specifically, greater exposure to speculative features in games was associated with higher engagement in gambling behaviors, which subsequently increased the risk of problematic investment behaviors. These findings provide empirical evidence that speculative gaming experiences not only contribute to gambling tendencies but also extend to risky financial behaviors among adolescents. The study highlights the importance of educational and policy interventions targeting speculative game mechanics to prevent gambling problems and problematic investment tendencies in youth.