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Saar CR, Brandes O, Baumel A. Identifying Active Ingredients that Cause Change in Digital Parent Training Programs for Child Behavior Problems: A Qualitative Exploration. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024:10.1007/s10578-024-01803-1. [PMID: 39673577 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-024-01803-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2024] [Indexed: 12/16/2024]
Abstract
Digital parent training programs (DPTs) aimed at treating child behavior problems have shown efficacy in a number of trials, but less is known about the active ingredients parents find helpful while using DPTs. We analyzed data from users of self-guided DPTs within a randomized controlled trial setting: a standard program (DPT-STD) and an enhanced program (DPT-TP). Thematic analysis of interviews (n = 16) reveals that users of both programs endorsed the "content", "content presentation", "accessibility", and "therapeutic context" as beneficial. However, only DPT-TP users identified the "therapeutic persuasiveness" as helpful, attributing this to features embedded exclusively in the enhanced program, including call-to-action reminders and assessment-based feedback. Findings were reinforced by the analysis of responses to open-ended questions from a larger sample of users (n = 31 DPT-STD users and n = 34 DPT-TP users). These findings underscore the importance of utilizing features that help parents make positive changes in their home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen R Saar
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Abba Khoushy Ave 199, Haifa, 3498838, Israel.
| | - Or Brandes
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Abba Khoushy Ave 199, Haifa, 3498838, Israel
| | - Amit Baumel
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Abba Khoushy Ave 199, Haifa, 3498838, Israel
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Cross SP, Alvarez-Jimenez M. The digital cumulative complexity model: a framework for improving engagement in digital mental health interventions. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1382726. [PMID: 39290300 PMCID: PMC11405244 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1382726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Mental health disorders affect a substantial portion of the global population. Despite preferences for psychotherapy, access remains limited due to various barriers. Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) have emerged to increase accessibility, yet engagement and treatment completion rates are concerning. Evidence across healthcare where some degree of self-management is required show that treatment engagement is negatively influenced by contextual complexity. This article examines the non-random factors influencing patient engagement in digital and face-to-face psychological therapies. It reviews established models and introduces an adapted version of the Cumulative Complexity Model (CuCoM) as a framework for understanding engagement in the context of digital mental health. Theoretical models like the Fogg Behavior Model, Persuasive System Design, Self-Determination Theory, and Supportive Accountability aim to explain disengagement. However, none adequately consider these broader contextual factors and their complex interactions with personal characteristics, intervention requirements and technology features. We expand on these models by proposing an application of CuCoM's application in mental health and digital contexts (known as DiCuCoM), focusing on the interplay between patient burden, personal capacity, and treatment demands. Standardized DMHIs often fail to consider individual variations in burden and capacity, leading to engagement variation. DiCuCoM highlights the need for balancing patient workload with capacity to improve engagement. Factors such as life demands, burden of treatment, and personal capacity are examined for their influence on treatment adherence. The article proposes a person-centered approach to treatment, informed by models like CuCoM and Minimally Disruptive Medicine, emphasizing the need for mental healthcare systems to acknowledge and address the unique burdens and capacities of individuals. Strategies for enhancing engagement include assessing personal capacity, reducing treatment burden, and utilizing technology to predict and respond to disengagement. New interventions informed by such models could lead to better engagement and ultimately better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane P Cross
- Orygen Digital, Orygen, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mario Alvarez-Jimenez
- Orygen Digital, Orygen, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Theofanopoulou N, Antle AN, Slovak P. "They Don't Come With a Handbook": Exploring Design Opportunities for Supporting Parent-Child Interaction around Emotions in the Family Context. PROCEEDINGS OF THE ACM ON HUMAN-COMPUTER INTERACTION 2024; 8:132. [PMID: 39015409 PMCID: PMC7616238 DOI: 10.1145/3637409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
Parenting practices have a profound effect on children's well-being and are a core target of several psychological interventions for child mental health. However, there is only limited understanding in HCI so far about how to design socio-technical systems that could support positive shifts in parent-child social practices in situ. This paper focuses on parental socialisation of emotion as an exemplar context in which to explore this question. We present a two-step study, combining theory-driven identification of plausible design directions with co-design workshops with 22 parents of children aged 6-10 years. Our data suggest the potential for technology-enabled systems that aim to facilitate positive changes in parent-child social practices in situ, and highlight a number of plausible design directions to explore in future work.
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Pepera G, Antoniou V, Su JJ, Lin R, Batalik L. Comprehensive and personalized approach is a critical area for developing remote cardiac rehabilitation programs. World J Clin Cases 2024; 12:2009-2015. [PMID: 38680265 PMCID: PMC11045502 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i12.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
In the evolving landscape of cardiac rehabilitation (CR), adopting digital technologies, including synchronous/real-time digital interventions and smart applications, has emerged as a transformative approach. These technologies offer real-time health data access, continuous vital sign monitoring, and personalized educational enhanced patient self-management and engagement. Despite their potential benefits, challenges and limitations exist, necessitating careful consideration. Synchronous/real-time digital CR involves remote, two-way audiovisual communication, addressing issues of accessibility and promoting home-based interventions. Smart applications extend beyond traditional healthcare, providing real-time health data and fostering patient empowerment. Wearable devices and mobile apps enable continuous monitoring, tracking of rehabilitation outcomes, and facilitate lifestyle modifications crucial for cardiac health maintenance. As digital CR progresses, ensuring patient access, equitable implementation, and addressing the digital divide becomes paramount. Artificial intelligence holds promise in the early detection of cardiac events and tailoring patient-specific CR programs. However, challenges such as digital literacy, data privacy, and security must be addressed to ensure inclusive implementation. Moreover, the shift toward digital CR raises concerns about cost, safety, and potential depersonalization of therapeutic relationships. A transformative shift towards technologically enabled CR necessitates further research, focusing not only on technological advancements but also on customization to meet diverse patient needs. Overcoming challenges related to cost, safety, data security, and potential depersonalization is crucial for the widespread adoption of digital CR. Future studies should explore integrating moral values into digital therapeutic relationships and ensure that digital CR is accessible, equitable, and seamlessly integrated into routine cardiac care. Theoretical frameworks that accommodate the dynamic quality of real-time monitoring and feedback feature of digital CR interventions should be considered to guide intervention development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garyfallia Pepera
- Clinical Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Research Laboratory, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Lamia GR35100, Greece
| | - Varsamo Antoniou
- Clinical Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Research Laboratory, Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Lamia GR35100, Greece
| | - Jing Jing Su
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong 999077, China
| | - Rose Lin
- University of Rochester School of Nursing, New York, NY 14602, United States
| | - Ladislav Batalik
- Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital Brno, Brno 62500, Czech Republic
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno 62500, Czech Republic
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Kautz-Turnbull C, Speybroeck E, Rockhold M, Petrenko CLM. Teachers' needs for an FASD-informed resource: a qualitative interview needs assessment based on the ADAPT-ITT framework. PSYCHOLOGY IN THE SCHOOLS 2024; 61:1255-1279. [PMID: 38911223 PMCID: PMC11192449 DOI: 10.1002/pits.23110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Background Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) represent a wide range of neurodevelopmental differences associated with prenatal alcohol exposure and are highly prevalent. The current study represents the initial stages in adapting the Families Moving Forward (FMF) Program, an evidence-based behavioral consultation intervention for caregivers of children with FASD, to a website for teachers. Aims To understand teachers' needs and preferences for an FASD-informed intervention website and to assess the goodness of fit of the FMF Program to teachers and the school setting. Methods Twenty-three teachers with experience teaching students with FASD were interviewed. Interviews were conducted via Zoom and lasted about 53 minutes on average. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using qualitative content analysis in Dedoose. Results Three overarching themes represented teachers' needs for an FASD-informed resource: teachers need evidence-based FASD information and strategies, teachers have very little extra time, and the needs of special and general education teachers vary. Teachers were positive about the concepts of the FMF Program and felt they would have good fit. Conclusions Teachers need an evidence-based FASD-informed intervention that is easy to use, concise, and responsive to varying needs and levels of experience. Results will inform the adaptation process of the FMF Program.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Kautz-Turnbull
- Mt. Hope Family Center, Department of Psychology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14608
| | - E Speybroeck
- Mt. Hope Family Center, Department of Psychology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14608
| | - M Rockhold
- Mt. Hope Family Center, Department of Psychology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14608
| | - C L M Petrenko
- Mt. Hope Family Center, Department of Psychology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14608
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Muench F, Madden SP, Oommen S, Forthal S, Srinagesh A, Stadler G, Kuerbis A, Leeman RF, Suffoletto B, Baumel A, Haslip C, Vadhan NP, Morgenstern J. Automated, tailored adaptive mobile messaging to reduce alcohol consumption in help-seeking adults: A randomized controlled trial. Addiction 2024; 119:530-543. [PMID: 38009576 PMCID: PMC10872985 DOI: 10.1111/add.16391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To test differential outcomes between three 6-month text-messaging interventions to reduce at-risk drinking in help-seeking adults. DESIGN A three-arm single-blind randomized controlled trial with 1-, 3-, 6- and 12-month follow-ups. SETTING United States. A fully remote trial without human contact, with participants recruited primarily via social media outlets. PARTICIPANTS Seven hundred and twenty-three adults (mean = 39.9 years, standard deviation = 10.0; 62.5% female) seeking to reduce their drinking were allocated to 6 months of baseline 'tailored statically' messaging (TS; n = 240), 'tailored adaptive' messaging (TA; n = 239) or 'drink tracking' messaging (DT; n = 244). INTERVENTIONS TS consisted of daily text messages to reduce harmful drinking that were tailored to demographics and alcohol use. TA consisted of daily, tailored text messages that were also adapted based on goal achievement and proactive prompts. DT consisted of a weekly assessment for self-reported drinking over the past 7 days. MEASUREMENTS The primary outcome measure was weekly sum of standard drinks (SSD) at 6-month follow-up. Secondary outcome measures included drinks per drinking day (DDD), number of drinking days (NDD) per week and heavy drinking days (HDD) at 1-, 3-, 6- and 12-month follow-ups. FINDINGS At 6 months, compared with DT, TA resulted in significant SSD reductions of 16.2 (from 28.7 to 12.5) drinks [adjusted risk ratio (aRR) = 0.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.71, 0.91] using intent-to-treat analysis. TA also resulted in significant improvements in DDD (aRR = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.77-0.92) and drinking days per week (b = -0.39; 95% CI = -0.67, -0.10), but not HDD compared with DT at 6 months. TA was not significantly different from TS at any time-point, except DDD at 6 months. All groups made improvements in SSD at 12-month follow-up compared with baseline with an average reduction of 12.9 drinks per week across groups. CONCLUSIONS Automated tailored mobile messaging interventions are scalable solutions that can reduce weekly alcohol consumption in remote help-seeking drinkers over time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sean P Madden
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Alexis Kuerbis
- Silberman School of Social Work, Hunter College at CUNY, The Graduate Center at CUNY, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert F Leeman
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Performance, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | | | - Amit Baumel
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Cameron Haslip
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Nehal P Vadhan
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Jon Morgenstern
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
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Su JJ, Wong AKC, Zhang LP, Bayuo J, Lin R, Abu-Odah H, Batalik L. Technology-assisted cardiac rehabilitation for coronary heart disease patients with central obesity: a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2024; 60:95-103. [PMID: 38059577 PMCID: PMC10936668 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.23.08111-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited empirical evidence is available regarding the effect of technology-assisted cardiac rehabilitation (TACR) among coronary heart disease (CHD) patients with central obesity. AIM To determine the effects of 12-week TACR on health outcomes of patients with CHD. DESIGN Two-arm randomized controlled trial. SETTING Cardiovascular department of a regional hospital. POPULATION Coronary heart disease patients with central obesity. METHODS The study randomized 78 hospitalized CHD patients to receive either the 12-week TACR intervention or usual care. Guided by social cognitive theory, the intervention began with an in-person assessment and orientation session to assess and identify individual risks and familiarize with the e-platform/device before discharge. After discharge, patients were encouraged to visit the interactive CR website for knowledge and skills acquisition, data uploading, use the pedometer for daily step tracking, and interact with peers and professionals via social media for problem-solving and mutual support. Data were collected at baseline (T0), six-week (T1), and 12-week (T2). RESULTS Participants in the intervention group showed significant improvement in daily steps at six weeks but not 12 weeks (T1: β=2713.48, P=0.03; T2:β=2450.70, P=0.08), weekly sitting minutes (T1: β=-665.17, P=0.002; T2: β=-722.29, P=0.02), and total (vigorous, moderate, and walking) exercise at 12-week (β=-2445.99, P=0.008). Improvement in health-promoting lifestyle profile (T1: β=24.9, P<0.001; T2: β=15.50, P<0.001), smoking cessation (T2: β=-2.28, P<0.04), self-efficacy (T2: β=0.63, P=0.02), body mass index (T1:β =-0.97, P=0.03; T2: β=-0.73, P=0.04) and waist circumferences (T1: β =-1.97, P=0.003; T2: β =-3.14, P=0.002) were identified. CONCLUSIONS Results indicated the effectiveness of the TACR intervention in improving healthy behaviors and anthropometric parameters for CHD patients with central obesity. Individual assessment, collaborative action planning, and ongoing obesity management support should be highlighted in TACR programs for CHD patients. CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT Central obesity should be assessed and highlighted in TACR intervention as an independent risk factor that requires corresponding behavior change and body fat management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Jing Su
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Li-Ping Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jonathan Bayuo
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Rose Lin
- Elaine Hubbard Center for Nursing Research on Aging, School of Nursing, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Hammoda Abu-Odah
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ladislav Batalik
- Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic -
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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Baumel A, Brandes O, Brendryen H, Muench F, Kane JM, Saar C. The impact of therapeutic persuasiveness on engagement and outcomes in unguided interventions: A randomized pilot trial of a digital parent training program for child behavior problems. Internet Interv 2023; 34:100680. [PMID: 37840647 PMCID: PMC10568087 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2023.100680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding how to design engaging unguided digital health interventions is key in our ability to utilize digital tools to improve access to care. Therapeutic persuasiveness (TP) is a design concept that relates to how the digital intervention features as a whole should be designed to encourage users to make positive changes in their lives, while reducing the experienced effort required from them to engage in these activities. In our previous work, we examined the user traffic of publicly available programs, finding programs' TP quality to be a reliable, robust, and stable predictor of real-world usage; however, these findings have not been subject to experimental manipulation in a controlled trial. The current study examined the impact of TP quality in digital parent training programs (DPTs) aimed at treating child's behavior problems. We conducted a pilot randomized controlled trial comparing two interventions that utilize the same evidence-based content of established DPTs, but that differ in terms of the quality of TP (standard: DPT-STD; enhanced: DPT-TP). Altogether, parents from 88 families who have a child with behavior problems were enrolled in the study. Compared to DPT-STD (n = 43), participants allocated to DPT-TP (n = 45) used the program significantly more (ps < 0.001; Cohen's ds = 0.91-2.22). In terms of program completion, 68.9 % of DPT-TP participants completed it compared to 27.9 % of DPT-STD participants. Significant differences between the interventions were also found in reported improvements in child behavior problems favoring DPT-TP (ps < 0.05; Cohen's ds = 0.43-0.54). The results point to the importance of adequate product design and the utilization of conceptual frameworks in order to improve user engagement challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Baumel
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Or Brandes
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Fred Muench
- The Unregret Foundation, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - John M. Kane
- Department of Psychiatry, The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States of America
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Institute of Behavioral Science, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, United States of America
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, United States of America
| | - Chen Saar
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Pelly M, Fatehi F, Liew D, Verdejo-Garcia A. Novel behaviour change frameworks for digital health interventions: A critical review. J Health Psychol 2023; 28:970-983. [PMID: 37051615 PMCID: PMC10466959 DOI: 10.1177/13591053231164499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Digital health interventions - interventions delivered over digital media to support the health of users - are becoming increasingly prevalent. Utilising an intervention development framework can increase the efficacy of digital interventions for health-related behaviours. This critical review aims to outline and review novel behaviour change frameworks that guide digital health intervention development. Our comprehensive search for preprints and publications used PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science and the Open Science Framework repository. Articles were included if they: (1) were peer-reviewed; (2) proposed a behaviour change framework to guide digital health intervention development; (3) were written in English; (4) were published between 1/1/19 and 1/8/2021; and (5) were applicable to chronic diseases. Intervention development frameworks considered the user, intervention elements and theoretical foundations. However, the timing and policy of interventions are not consistently addressed across frameworks. Researchers should deeply consider the digital applicability of behaviour change frameworks to improve intervention success.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farhad Fatehi
- Monash University, Australia
- The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Danny Liew
- Monash University, Australia
- The Alfred Hospital, Australia
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Maciejewski J, Smoktunowicz E. Low-effort internet intervention to reduce students' stress delivered with Meta's Messenger chatbot (Stressbot): A randomized controlled trial. Internet Interv 2023; 33:100653. [PMID: 37575678 PMCID: PMC10413073 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2023.100653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In order to be more accessible and overcome the challenges of low adherence and high dropout, self-guided internet interventions need to seek new delivery formats. In this study, we tested whether a widely-adopted social media app - Meta's (Facebook) Messenger - would be a suitable conveyor of such an internet intervention. Specifically, we verified the efficacy of Stressbot: a Messenger chatbot-delivered intervention focused on enhancing coping self-efficacy to reduce stress and improve quality of life in university students. Participants (N = 372) were randomly assigned to two conditions: (1) an experimental group with access to the Stressbot intervention, and (2) a waitlist control group. Three outcomes, namely coping self-efficacy, stress, and quality of life, were assessed at three time points: a baseline, post-test, and one-month follow-up. Linear Mixed Effects Models were used to analyze the data. At post-test, we found improvements in the Stressbot condition compared to the control condition for stress (d = -0.33) and coping self-efficacy (d = 0.50), but not for quality of life. A sensitivity analysis revealed that the positive short-term intervention effects were robust. At the follow-up, there were no differences between groups, indicating that the intervention was effective only in the short term. In sum, the results suggest that the Messenger app is a viable means to deliver a self-guided internet intervention. However, modifications such as a more engaging design or boosters are required for the effects to persist.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ewelina Smoktunowicz
- StresLab Research Centre, Institute of Psychology, SWPS University, Warsaw, Poland
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11
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Daniore P, Nittas V, von Wyl V. Enrollment and Retention of Participants in Remote Digital Health Studies: Scoping Review and Framework Proposal. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e39910. [PMID: 36083626 PMCID: PMC9508669 DOI: 10.2196/39910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital technologies are increasingly used in health research to collect real-world data from wider populations. A new wave of digital health studies relies primarily on digital technologies to conduct research entirely remotely. Remote digital health studies hold promise to significant cost and time advantages over traditional, in-person studies. However, such studies have been reported to typically suffer from participant attrition, the sources for which are still largely understudied. OBJECTIVE To contribute to future remote digital health study planning, we present a conceptual framework and hypotheses for study enrollment and completion. The framework introduces 3 participation criteria that impact remote digital health study outcomes: (1) participant motivation profile and incentives or nudges, (2) participant task complexity, and (3) scientific requirements. The goal of this study is to inform the planning and implementation of remote digital health studies from a person-centered perspective. METHODS We conducted a scoping review to collect information on participation in remote digital health studies, focusing on methodological aspects that impact participant enrollment and retention. Comprehensive searches were conducted on the PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases, and additional sources were included in our study from citation searching. We included digital health studies that were fully conducted remotely, included information on at least one of the framework criteria during recruitment, onboarding or retention phases of the studies, and included study enrollment or completion outcomes. Qualitative analyses were performed to synthesize the findings from the included studies. RESULTS We report qualitative findings from 37 included studies that reveal high values of achieved median participant enrollment based on target sample size calculations, 128% (IQR 100%-234%), and median study completion, 48% (IQR 35%-76%). Increased median study completion is observed for studies that provided incentives or nudges to extrinsically motivated participants (62%, IQR 43%-78%). Reducing task complexity for participants in the absence of incentives or nudges did not improve median study enrollment (103%, IQR 102%-370%) or completion (43%, IQR 22%-60%) in observational studies, in comparison to interventional studies that provided more incentives or nudges (median study completion rate of 55%, IQR 38%-79%). Furthermore, there were inconsistencies in measures of completion across the assessed remote digital health studies, where only around half of the studies with completion measures (14/27, 52%) were based on participant retention throughout the study period. CONCLUSIONS Few studies reported on participatory factors and study outcomes in a consistent manner, which may have limited the evidence base for our study. Our assessment may also have suffered from publication bias or unrepresentative study samples due to an observed preference for participants with digital literacy skills in digital health studies. Nevertheless, we find that future remote digital health study planning can benefit from targeting specific participant profiles, providing incentives and nudges, and reducing study complexity to improve study outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Daniore
- Institute for Implementation Science in Healthcare, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Digital Society Initiative, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vasileios Nittas
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Viktor von Wyl
- Institute for Implementation Science in Healthcare, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Digital Society Initiative, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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12
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Cross SP, Karin E, Staples LG, Bisby MA, Ryan K, Duke G, Nielssen O, Kayrouz R, Fisher A, Dear BF, Titov N. Factors associated with treatment uptake, completion, and subsequent symptom improvement in a national digital mental health service. Internet Interv 2022; 27:100506. [PMID: 35242587 PMCID: PMC8857488 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2022.100506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Digital mental health services (DMHS) have proven effectiveness and play an important role within the broader mental health system by reducing barriers to evidence-based care. However, improved understanding of the factors associated with successful treatment uptake, treatment completion and positive clinical outcomes will facilitate efforts to maximise outcomes. Previous studies have demonstrated that patient age is positively associated, and initial symptom severity negatively associated with treatment uptake and treatment completion rates in both DMHS and other mental health services. The current study sought to extend these findings by examining the effect of other patient characteristics, in particular, self-reported psychosocial difficulties, using data from a large-scale national DMHS. Using a prospective uncontrolled observational cohort study design, we collected self-reported demographic, psychosocial and clinical data from 15,882 patients who accessed the MindSpot Clinic, Australia, between 1 January and 31 December 2019. Using a series of univariate regression models and multivariate classification algorithms we found that older age, higher educational attainment, and being in a relationship were all positively associated with uptake, completion and significant symptom improvement, while higher initial symptom severity was negatively associated with those outcomes. In addition, self-reported psychosocial difficulties had a significant negative impact on uptake, completion, and symptom improvement. Consistent with previous literature, the presence of these characteristics in isolation or in combination have a significant impact on treatment uptake, completion, and symptomatic improvement. Individual and multiple psychosocial difficulties are associated with reduced capacity to participate in treatment and hence an increased treatment burden. Identifying patients with lower capacity to complete treatment, modifications to treatments and the provision of supports to reduce treatment burden may promote greater engagement and completion of treatments offered by digital mental health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane P. Cross
- MindSpot Clinic, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Eyal Karin
- MindSpot Clinic, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lauren G. Staples
- MindSpot Clinic, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Madelyne A. Bisby
- MindSpot Clinic, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Katie Ryan
- MindSpot Clinic, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Georgia Duke
- MindSpot Clinic, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Olav Nielssen
- MindSpot Clinic, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rony Kayrouz
- MindSpot Clinic, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alana Fisher
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Blake F. Dear
- MindSpot Clinic, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nickolai Titov
- MindSpot Clinic, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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Schroé H, Crombez G, De Bourdeaudhuij I, Van Dyck D. Investigating When, Which, and Why Users Stop Using a Digital Health Intervention to Promote an Active Lifestyle: Secondary Analysis With A Focus on Health Action Process Approach–Based Psychological Determinants. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2022; 10:e30583. [PMID: 35099400 PMCID: PMC8845016 DOI: 10.2196/30583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Digital health interventions have gained momentum to change health behaviors such as physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB). Although these interventions show promising results in terms of behavior change, they still suffer from high attrition rates, resulting in a lower potential and accessibility. To reduce attrition rates in the future, there is a need to investigate the reasons why individuals stop using the interventions. Certain demographic variables have already been related to attrition; however, the role of psychological determinants of behavior change as predictors of attrition has not yet been fully explored. Objective The aim of this study was to examine when, which, and why users stopped using a digital health intervention. In particular, we aimed to investigate whether psychological determinants of behavior change were predictors for attrition. Methods The sample consisted of 473 healthy adults who participated in the intervention MyPlan 2.0 to promote PA or reduce SB. The intervention was developed using the health action process approach (HAPA) model, which describes psychological determinants that guide individuals in changing their behavior. If participants stopped with the intervention, a questionnaire with 8 question concerning attrition was sent by email. To analyze when users stopped using the intervention, descriptive statistics were used per part of the intervention (including pre- and posttest measurements and the 5 website sessions). To analyze which users stopped using the intervention, demographic variables, behavioral status, and HAPA-based psychological determinants at pretest measurement were investigated as potential predictors of attrition using logistic regression models. To analyze why users stopped using the intervention, descriptive statistics of scores to the attrition-related questionnaire were used. Results The study demonstrated that 47.9% (227/473) of participants stopped using the intervention, and drop out occurred mainly in the beginning of the intervention. The results seem to indicate that gender and participant scores on the psychological determinants action planning, coping planning, and self-monitoring were predictors of first session, third session, or whole intervention completion. The most endorsed reasons to stop using the intervention were the time-consuming nature of questionnaires (55%), not having time (50%), dissatisfaction with the content of the intervention (41%), technical problems (39%), already meeting the guidelines for PA/SB (31%), and, to a lesser extent, the experience of medical/emotional problems (16%). Conclusions This study provides some directions for future studies. To decrease attrition, it will be important to personalize interventions on different levels, questionnaires (either for research purposes or tailoring) should be kept to a minimum especially in the beginning of interventions by, for example, using objective monitoring devices, and technical aspects of digital health interventions should be thoroughly tested in advance. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03274271; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03274271 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR2-10.1186/s13063-019-3456-7
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Schroé
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Experimental-Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Geert Crombez
- Department of Experimental-Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ilse De Bourdeaudhuij
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Delfien Van Dyck
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Mouchabac S, Maatoug R, Conejero I, Adrien V, Bonnot O, Millet B, Ferreri F, Bourla A. In Search of Digital Dopamine: How Apps Can Motivate Depressed Patients, a Review and Conceptual Analysis. Brain Sci 2021; 11:1454. [PMID: 34827453 PMCID: PMC8615613 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11111454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Depression is highly prevalent and causes considerable suffering and disease burden despite the existence of wide-ranging treatment options. Momentary assessment is a promising tool in the management of psychiatric disorders, and particularly depression. It allows for a real-time evaluation of symptoms and an earlier detection of relapse or treatment efficacy. Treating the motivational and hedonic aspects of depression is a key target reported in the literature, but it is time-consuming in terms of human resources. Digital Applications offer a major opportunity to indirectly regulate impaired motivational circuits through dopaminergic pathways. OBJECTIVE The main objective of this review was twofold: (1) propose a conceptual and critical review of the literature regarding the theoretical and technical principles of digital applications focused on motivation in depression, activating dopamine, and (2) suggest recommendations on the relevance of using these tools and their potential place in the treatment of depression. MATERIAL AND METHODS A search for words related to "dopamine", "depression", "smartphone apps", "digital phenotype" has been conducted on PubMed. RESULTS Ecological momentary interventions (EMIs) differ from traditional treatments by providing relevant, useful intervention strategies in the context of people's daily lives. EMIs triggered by ecological momentary assessment (EMA) are called "Smart-EMI". Smart-EMIs can mimic the "dopamine reward system" if the intervention is tailored for motivation or hedonic enhancement, and it has been shown that a simple reward (such as a digital badge) can increase motivation. DISCUSSION The various studies presented support the potential interest of digital health in effectively motivating depressed patients to adopt therapeutic activation behaviors. Finding effective ways to integrate EMIs with human-provided therapeutic support may ultimately yield the most efficient and effective intervention method. This approach could be a helpful tool to increase adherence and motivation. CONCLUSION Smartphone apps can motivate depressed patients by enhancing dopamine, offering the opportunity to enhance motivation and behavioral changes, although longer term studies are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephane Mouchabac
- Department of Psychiatry, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, 75012 Paris, France
- iCRIN (Infrastructure for Clinical Research in Neurosciences), Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Redwan Maatoug
- iCRIN (Infrastructure for Clinical Research in Neurosciences), Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, 75013 Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Service de Psychiatrie Adulte de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Institut du Cerveau, ICM, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Ismael Conejero
- Department of Psychiatry, CHU Nîmes, University of Montpellier, 30090 Nîmes, France
- Inserm, Unit 1061 "Neuropsychiatry: Epidemiological and Clinical Research", 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - Vladimir Adrien
- Department of Psychiatry, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, 75012 Paris, France
- iCRIN (Infrastructure for Clinical Research in Neurosciences), Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Olivier Bonnot
- CHU de Nantes, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 44093 Nantes, France
- Pays de la Loire Psychology Laboratory, EA 4638, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Bruno Millet
- iCRIN (Infrastructure for Clinical Research in Neurosciences), Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, 75013 Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Service de Psychiatrie Adulte de la Pitié-Salpêtrière, Institut du Cerveau, ICM, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Florian Ferreri
- Department of Psychiatry, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, 75012 Paris, France
- iCRIN (Infrastructure for Clinical Research in Neurosciences), Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Alexis Bourla
- Department of Psychiatry, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, 75012 Paris, France
- iCRIN (Infrastructure for Clinical Research in Neurosciences), Brain Institute (ICM), Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, 75013 Paris, France
- Jeanne d'Arc Hospital, INICEA Korian, 94160 Saint-Mandé, France
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