# 270: Should I Let My Kid Make In-App Purchases in Video Games?

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/ask-lisa-the-psychology-of-raising-tweens-teens-477102/270-should-i-let-my-kid-make-in-app-purchases-in-video-games
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/ask-lisa-the-psychology-of-raising-tweens-teens-477102/270-should-i-let-my-kid-make-in-app-purchases-in-video-games.md
Podcast: [Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Raising Tweens & Teens](https://stenobird.com/podcast/ask-lisa-the-psychology-of-raising-tweens-teens-477102)
Published: 2026-05-05T07:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://pdst.fm/e/swap.fm/track/JhoQDAATtO1l0y8tdKNa/pscrb.fm/rss/p/traffic.megaphone.fm/GTP3862814718.mp3?updated=1777641243
Audio file: https://pdst.fm/e/swap.fm/track/JhoQDAATtO1l0y8tdKNa/pscrb.fm/rss/p/traffic.megaphone.fm/GTP3862814718.mp3?updated=1777641243
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/ask-lisa-the-psychology-of-raising-tweens-teens-477102/episodes/270-should-i-let-my-kid-make-in-app-purchases-in-video-games
Duration seconds: 1726

## Resource

Loot boxes, in-app purchases, Robux, skins — and a kid who won't stop asking for them. If you're a parent of a tween or teen gamer, you already know this pressure. But are these purchases actually harmful, or are you just out of touch with how gaming works today? In-app purchases are one of the most confusing pressure points for parents of tweens and teens right now. The games are "free to download," but they’re not really free. And when real money turns into Robux or gems, it can disappear fast. In this episode, clinical psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Lisa Damour and Reena Ninan break down exactly what's going on inside these video games, what parents actually need to worry about, and how to set clear, calm limits without turning every gaming session into a fight. 💡 YOU'LL LEARN: - Why "free-to-play" games aren't actually free, and how to explain the business model to your kid in a way that sticks - The difference between cosmetic skins and loot boxes - How virtual currencies like Robux and gems are specifically designed to make spending feel like it's not real money - A simple framework for talking about whose money, how much, and what happens when it runs out - How to stay warm and curious about your kid's gaming life in a way that prioritizes a strong relationship with your kid Gaming isn't the enemy, but clever marketing is baked into these platforms, and your kid needs you to be one step ahead of it. This episode gives you the language and the confidence to do exactly that. ________________ Today's sponsors: Wayfair: Visit ⁠https://wayfair.com. LMNT: Receive a free LMNT Sample Pack with any order at https://drinklmnt.com/asklisa Warby Parker: Buy one prescription pair of glasses and get 20% off any additional prescription pairs at https://www.WarbyParker…

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