The Psychology Behind Blind Box Addiction: More Than Just Luck

Why would adults obsess over $30 plastic toys? Blind boxes thrive on behavioral psychology:

• The Gambling High: Unboxing’s uncertainty mimics slot machines, releasing dopamine. As one Australian collector admitted: “The rush is addictive” after spending $1,200 on 20 LABUBUs 19.
• Social Currency: TikTok unboxing videos (#blindbox has millions of views) build community. For Gen Z, owning rares like “Skullpanda” signals status 27.
• Nostalgia Meets Therapy: Post-pandemic, 58% of U.S. parents buy toys for themselves—a trend called “Kidulting.” LABUBU’s goofy grin offers low-stakes joy in stressful times