A cautious approach to public policy and loot box regulation. (March 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: McCaffrey, Matthew
• Is Part Of: Addictive behaviors. Volume 102(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-03
• Subjects: Substance abuse -- Periodicals; Alcoholism -- Periodicals; Drug addiction -- Periodicals; Nicotine addiction -- Periodicals; Smoking -- Periodicals; Gambling -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 362.29
• DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.106136
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-4603

Abstract

Highlights: Loot box research is thriving, but the policy implications of this work are unclear. Economic analysis of policy proposals is necessary to inform addiction research. A three-part framework for analysing regulatory responses to loot boxes is outlined. Economic analysis traces the costs and unintended consequences of public policy. Some examples of problems resulting from hasty policymaking are outlined.