Designing Persuasive Health Behavior Change Interventions

Abstract

In the past decade, the utilization of various technologies to change individuals’ health behaviors has been a rapidly expanding field of interest. Examples of persuasive technologies can be found rather easily as there are a variety of Internet-, Web- and mobile-based systems and applications promoting healthier lifestyles. Still, the use of persuasive technology in the E-health arena is in its infancy. While the field is expanding, it is evident that more research is needed to better determine how the systems affect users’ intended behaviors. This book chapter outlines several important perspectives in designing and developing persuasive health behavior change interventions. Furthermore, this chapter offers novel viewpoints, both theoretical and practical, in designing and developing health behavior change interventions. In addition, useful underlying theories and design models are identified and discussed. This type of knowledge may assist in building, deploying and evaluating behavior change support systems that are able to engage and retain large amounts of individuals, potentially enhancing population health and well-being.