IPB University FKGiz Lecturer: Blind Box Trend Has the Potential to Trigger Addictive Behavior and Mental Health Disorders
The growing trend of purchasing blind boxes among various segments of society has drawn the attention of academics. Dr Samuel Stemi, MBiomed, AIFO-K, Dipl AAAM, a lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition (FKGiz) at IPB University, warns that this phenomenon has the potential to cause psychological effects if done excessively and without control.
According to dr Samuel, the main appeal of blind boxes lies in the curiosity and surprise experienced when opening a box whose contents are unknown beforehand. This sensation triggers a feeling of joy that drives a person to repeat the experience.
“As long as it remains within reasonable limits, blind boxes can be a form of entertainment. However, if done repeatedly without control, this habit can develop into a behavior that is difficult to stop due to the urge to keep obtaining specific items or characters that are desired,” he said.
He explained that this condition triggers the release of the hormone dopamine, which can be even stronger than the response to a guaranteed reward due to the presence of uncertainty, surprise, and expectation.
From a psychological health perspective, excessive purchasing of blind boxes has the potential to increase impulsivity, reduce the ability to delay gratification, and cause stress due to uncontrolled spending.
In terms of health and anti-aging, long term psychological stress can also increase levels of the hormone cortisol. This condition is associated with accelerated biological aging, such as decreased skin quality, the emergence of chronic inflammation, and metabolic disorders.
dr Samuel believes that the psychological mechanisms involved in the blind box phenomenon share similarities with other addictive behaviors, including gambling. The similarities lie in the uncertain reward system, activation of dopamine pathways in the brain, and the urge to repeatedly engage in the behavior.
“Although it is not clinically identical to gambling, this pattern falls within the spectrum of addictive behaviors that should be approached with caution,” he said.
He added that when someone receives an undesired item or a duplicate, feelings of disappointment or dysphoria often arise. This condition can trigger reward chasing behavior, namely the desire to make another purchase in the hope of obtaining a more satisfying outcome.
“This drive to improve outcomes is what has the potential to reinforce the cycle of addiction,” he explained.
As a preventive measure, dr Samuel advises the public to understand the psychological mechanisms behind the blind box phenomenon, apply the principles of mindful buying by setting limits on budget and purchase frequency, and enhance financial literacy and impulse control skills, especially among adolescents.
He also emphasized the important role of parents in monitoring the consumption patterns of children and adolescents to ensure they remain healthy. If the behavior becomes compulsive and interferes with daily activities, he recommends that individuals promptly consult a psychologist or psychiatrist.
“Blind boxes are not entirely negative if engaged consciously and in a controlled manner. However, without good self regulation, there is potential for adverse impacts on mental health and, indirectly, on the aging process due to the close relationship between stress, hormones, and long term health,” he concluded. (IAAS/EPK)
