Changing Behavior in the Digital Age

doi:10.1017/9781108677318.029

29 - Changing Behavior in the Digital Age

from Part II - Methods and Processes of Behavior Change: Intervention Development, Application, and Translation

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 04 July 2020

Edited by

Nelli Hankonen and

Martin S. Hagger: Affiliation:
University of California, Merced
Linda D. Cameron: Affiliation:
University of California, Merced
Kyra Hamilton: Affiliation:
Griffith University
Nelli Hankonen: Affiliation:
University of Helsinki
Taru Lintunen: Affiliation:
University of Jyväskylä

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Summary

Many people are unable or unwilling to participate in face-to-face interventions for functional behavior change, and existing services often have poor fidelity to evidence-based approaches. Pervasive ownership of digital devices may offer ways to supplement and increase the reach and impact of face-to-face care. Digital approaches to support behavioral change range from informational resources, through self-guided programs or apps, to digitally-delivered or guided human interventions. Online information is well accepted, and digital interventions are increasing in acceptability and use. Digital interventions also have strong research support. For example, coached web programs for some mental health conditions have equivalent effects to face-to-face treatment. However, many digital tools have no quality or efficacy data, and more agile ways to obtain data are needed. Threats to acceptance and use of digital interventions include concerns about data security, and difficulties deciding which resources and interventions to choose. What is promising is that sound assessment tools and initiatives to provide advice are emerging. Digital tools and resources have the potential to increase the reach, impact, and cost-effectiveness of existing behavior change initiatives, although they have yet to fully impact the way services are funded and delivered. That picture is likely to change rapidly in the coming decade.

Keywords

digital devices mobile technology self-guided interventions acceptability engagement usability fidelity participatory codesign

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Type: Chapter
Information: The Handbook of Behavior Change , pp. 416 - 429

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108677318.029 [Opens in a new window]

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Print publication year: 2020

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