Impact Analysis of Online Gaming Frequency on In-Game Purchase Habits of Filipino Teenagers

As online gaming continues to expand among Filipino adolescents, the boundary between digital entertainment and economic participation grows increasingly blurred. This paper examines the relationship between gaming frequency and in-game purchase habits among Filipino teenagers through mixed-methods of approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Data is collected from 120 participants across Metro Manila and nearby provinces were analyzed using Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, and thematic analysis. Quantitative findings revealed a positive correlation “(r = 0.67, p < 0.01)” between gaming frequency and in-game spending, with peer influence and reward motivation emerging as significant predictors of purchase behavior (R² = 0.58). Qualitative results reinforced these findings, identifying social validation and emotional gratification as primary motivators. The analysis of impact also revealed that peer influence had the greatest influence on Internet expenditure (Impact Score = 0.85), which focuses on the social aspect of Filipino gaming culture. These findings indicate that online gaming has ceased being a recreation activity to a socially mediated economic habit. The results support the need to educate teenagers in digital financial literacy and responsible gaming in order to enable them to spend money online in a responsible manner.