Behavior change techniques in mobile applications for sedentary behavior.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Mobile applications (apps) are increasingly being utilized in health behavior change interventions. To determine the presence of underlying behavior change mechanisms, apps for physical activity have been coded for behavior change techniques (BCTs). However, apps for sedentary behavior have yet to be assessed for BCTs. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to review apps designed to decrease sedentary time and determine the presence of BCTs.

Methods

Systematic searches of the iTunes App and Google Play stores were completed using keyword searches. Two reviewers independently coded free (n = 36) and paid (n = 14) app descriptions using a taxonomy of 93 BCTs (December 2016-January 2017). A subsample (n = 4) of free apps were trialed for one

SUBMITTER: Dunn EE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6043935 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature