Wearable Activity Tracker Use in Young Adults Through the Lens of Social Cognitive Theory

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackground: Young adults are adopting wearables ahead of research. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the use of trackers through Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). Methods: SCT-guided individual interviews were conducted with young adults (n = 57). Typical case sampling was used to recruit college students (n = 35) and straight-to-work (STW) young adults (n = 22) for in-person/online interviews. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using NVivo. Results: There were few differences between the two groups. Most reported little knowledge of the benefits/risks associated with their health behavior (eg, physical activity) but high expectations of how devices would assist them in developing/maintaining behavior. Self-regulatory aspects were seen as benefits. Many reported not setting goals other than those set by their device. Most reported increased self-efficacy and viewed their device as positive, nonjudgmental social support. Discussion: Young adult device use can be health directed or health related. Utilizing devices and SCT-based education may increase young adults’ knowledge, self-efficacy, and self-regulation while managing expectations. Translation to Health Education Practice: Health Educators should focus on increasing health knowledge, managing expectations, and setting goals. Building on the increased self-efficacy and social support that young adults reported as part of their wearable activity tracker use could provide a solid foundation for Health Education efforts. A AJHE Self-Study quiz is online for this article via the SHAPE America Online Institute (SAOI)http://portal.shapeamerica.org/trn-Webinars