Crypto freedom! Effects of trait reactance and regulation content on intention to buy cryptocurrency

Abstract

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have attracted billions in investment in a short period of time. Currently, there is a move to introduce regulations for crypto trading. The purpose of the current research was to study the effect of trait reactance and messages about freedom-protecting (vs. freedom-restricting) crypto regulations on an individual's attitude toward cryptocurrency and buying intention. The following mediators were examined: (1) positive affect and (2) negative affect (i.e., anger). A total of 566 people took part in a 2 (regulation content: freedom-protecting vs. freedom-restricting) × trait reactance (continuous) between-participants design. The freedom message emphasized that regulations would support an individual investor's right to invest in crypto. The restriction message stated that crypto trading would be restricted to professional investors. Trait reactance was measured with Hong and Page's (1989) Psychological Reactance scale. Results indicated that trait reactance had a positive effect on state reactance and positive affect. The effect of trait reactance on crypto buying intention was mediated by positive affect and anger. Freedom (vs. restriction) messages were associated with an increase in positive affect and decrease in anger. Freedom messages about crypto investing generate a more positive response than messages outlining restrictions to crypto investing.