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The Motivations for Micro-Transactions Use Scale (MMUS): Development and validation

Author

Listed:
  • Gibson, Erin
  • Griffiths, Mark D.
  • Calado, Filipa
  • Harris, Andrew

Abstract

Videogame micro-transactions are a popular form of monetization for game companies. Studies to date have identified an association between specific forms of micro-transaction and problematic gaming and gambling behaviour. Few studies have discussed motivations for the use of a wide range of micro-transactions. The present study reports the development and validation of a novel scale assessing motivations for the use of multiple forms of micro-transaction. The 16-item, five-factor Motivations for Micro-transactions Use Scale (MMUS) was developed through an expert panel (n = 7) and two focus groups (n = 6), followed by a survey of gamers who had previously or currently used micro-transactions (n = 597, Mage = 31.6 years, SD = 7.78). Participants (n = 125) completed the survey again after a two-week period. Subscales included: (i) achievement and advancement, (ii) social status, (iii) personality expression, (iv) fanship, and (v) non-motivation. The scale structure had good model fit (χ2/df = 1.58, RMSEA = 0.046 (LCI = 0.31, UCI = 0.59), TLI = 0.991, CFI = 0.993, and SRMR = 0.069). The scale showed good construct validity with AVE values ranging from 0.54 to 0.77 and significant total scale score correlations with extant scales (r = 0.22 to 0.44). The scale also showed good internal consistency (α = 0.75) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.866; LCI = 0.838, UCI = 0.921). The paper also discusses the underlying motivations of the MMUS in relation to extant micro-transaction, gaming and gambling literature, and self-determination theory.

Suggested Citation

  • Gibson, Erin & Griffiths, Mark D. & Calado, Filipa & Harris, Andrew, 2026. "The Motivations for Micro-Transactions Use Scale (MMUS): Development and validation," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 87(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:teinso:v:87:y:2026:i:c:s0160791x26002046
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2026.103415
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