The famous Kinder Surprise chocolate eggs can influence children to develop the habit of seeking random rewards, said pediatrician Daria Vlasenko.
According to the doctor, gambling addiction may occur. When gambling stops being fun, it starts controlling a person. There is a loss of control, the person cannot stop, and the game becomes the most important thing. This is an addiction, when "gambling" becomes a necessity that is difficult to control, even when it is harmful.
Not all "surprises" have the same effect on the child.
Surprise is not a problem in itself. The risk increases when the following factors are added: frequent purchases
random outcome (you never know what will happen, chasing a rare item, limited editions ("buy it now"), fear of missing out, bright effects that heighten emotions, the possibility of selling or "winning" something of value, the individual vulnerability of the child
A simple Kinder Surprise does not lead to gambling addiction.
Classic surprise toys are usually safe because there is no cash prize or feeling of "earning" anything.
The important difference is frequency. A one-time surprise and a constant repeat are two different things. "Once is an experience. Double spending is a behavior. The key is not the actual cost, but the fact that the child is paying for an unknown outcome. "Research shows that random purchases are more associated with gambling behavior than regular purchases," the doctor emphasized.
When an outcome is unpredictable, the brain wants to repeat it. Not only the winnings, but also the anticipation and intrigue create a sense of enjoyment. This is why such formats are so addictive.
"It's like the brain is saying, 'What if I get lucky next time?' "The 'almost victorious' effect increases the desire to continue," explained Vlasenko.
The usual "Kinder Surprise" is not the most dangerous format. If it is an ordinary toy without constant repetition, then the effect is significantly weaker.
What matters is what's missing:
quick "again and again" cycle
"almost victory" animations
"buy in bulk" kits
resell or earn
"just today" feeling
What should parents pay attention to after buying Kinder Surprise?
the child wants to buy more and more
"I need this rare toy" appears
there is a feeling of "next time I will definitely be successful".
the child gets very upset when he does not get what he wants
constantly watches the opening of the box, then wants to buy again.
