Addiction and compulsive ebhaviours in middle adolescents engaging in e-money activities on TikTok: A study in the western province, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Background: The rapid rise of digital platforms like TikTok has transformed adolescent financial behaviors, particularly through e-money activities such as virtual gifting, in-app purchases, and content monetization. While these interactions offer economic opportunities, they also raise concerns regarding addiction and compulsive behaviors among middle adolescents. This study explores the prevalence and psychological impact of e-money engagement among adolescents in the Western Province of Sri Lanka, addressing a critical research gap in understanding the intersection of social media and financial behavioral risks. The research problem focuses on how TikTok's e-money features contribute to compulsive spending habits and potential addiction among middle adolescents. The primary objective is to assess the behavioral patterns, psychological triggers, and social influences leading to compulsive e-money activities, while also evaluating the effectiveness of regulatory measures in mitigating these risks. Method: This study adopts a pragmatic research philosophy and employs a mixed-method approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative data. Data collection methods include structured questionnaires targeting a representative sample of middle adolescents and in-depth interviews with key stakeholders such as parents, educators, and mental health professionals. A stratified sampling technique is used to ensure diversity across different socioeconomic and demographic groups within the Western Province. The data is analyzed using SPSS for statistical insights and content and thematic analysis for qualitative findings. Results: The study's findings highlight the psychological and behavioral consequences of TikTok's e-money ecosystem on adolescents, revealing key risk factors that contribute to compulsive digital spending. The research identified a strong correlation between frequent e-money transactions and addictive behaviors, driven by peer influence, gamification elements, and instant gratification. Additionally, findings indicate that inadequate financial literacy and parental supervision exacerbate these risks. Conclusion: Based on these insights, the study proposes policy recommendations, including enhanced digital literacy programs, stricter parental controls, and platform-level interventions aimed at mitigating addiction and financial exploitation among adolescents.