Online peer groups as a persuasive tool to combat digital addiction

Amen Alrobai*, John McAlaney, Keith Phalp, Raian Ali

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

14 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Digital Addiction (DA) denotes a problematic usage of digital devices characterised by properties such as being compulsive, impulsive, excessive and hasty. DA is associated with negative behaviours such as anxiety and depression. “Digital Detox” programs have started to appear and are mainly based on a relatively expensive and heavyweight in-patient care utilising traditional solutions such as motivational interviews and cognitive behavioural therapies. For moderate addiction, persuasive technology could have potential, as a brief intervention, to assist users to regulate their usage. This paper explores the design of online peer groups as a persuasive technique that puts together people who share a common interest in combating their DA or in helping others to do so. We conducted empirical research to explore design aspects of this mechanism. The results raise a range of questions and challenges to address when developing such a technique for the behaviour change needed against DA.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationPersuasive Technology - 11th International Conference, PERSUASIVE 2016, Proceedings
EditorsManfred Tscheligi, Boris De Ruyter, Alexander Meschtscherjakov, Verena Fuchsberger, Martin Murer, Manfred Tscheligi
PublisherSpringer Verlag
Pages288-300
Number of pages13
ISBN (Print)9783319315096
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2016
Externally publishedYes
Event11th International Conference on Persuasive Technology, PERSUASIVE 2016 - Salzburg, Austria
Duration: 5 Apr 20167 Apr 2016

Publication series

NameLecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics)
Volume9638
ISSN (Print)0302-9743
ISSN (Electronic)1611-3349

Conference

Conference11th International Conference on Persuasive Technology, PERSUASIVE 2016
Country/TerritoryAustria
CitySalzburg
Period5/04/167/04/16

Keywords

  • Digital addiction
  • Digital health persuasion
  • Online peer groups

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Online peer groups as a persuasive tool to combat digital addiction'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this