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Theory-Based Design and Development of a Socially Connected, Gamified Mobile App for Men About Breastfeeding (Milk

Becky K White1, Annegret Martin, James A White

  • 1School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.

JMIR Mhealth and Uhealth
|June 29, 2016
PubMed

Insights

This study developed "Milk Man," the first breastfeeding app for fathers, to improve infant feeding support. The app, designed with user input and behavior theory, received high ratings and is now in clinical trials.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Mobile Health (mHealth)
  • Health Behavior Theory

Background:

  • Low rates of exclusive breastfeeding in Australia highlight a need for improved support.
  • Father's involvement is crucial for breastfeeding success, yet interventions often overlook this demographic.
  • Mobile technology presents an innovative platform for enhancing health literacy and promoting healthy behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop the first evidence-based breastfeeding mobile application specifically designed for men.
  • To leverage formative research, behavior change theory, and user feedback to create an app that enhances men's ability to support breastfeeding partners.
  • To provide accessible information and social support to fathers through a dedicated mobile platform.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized Social Cognitive Theory to guide the app's design and development process.
  • Conducted formative research, including focus groups with fathers (n=18) and health professionals (n=16), to inform app features.
  • Employed a think-aloud study with fathers (n=4) and the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) to test and refine a prototype.

Main Results:

  • Focus groups provided valuable insights from fathers and health professionals, directly influencing app development.
  • Usability testing identified key areas for improvement, such as adding a tutorial and enhancing personalization.
  • The app prototype achieved a high average MARS score of 4.3 out of 5, indicating positive user reception.

Conclusions:

  • "Milk Man" is identified as the first breastfeeding support application specifically targeting men.
  • The app's development followed a rigorous, best-practice approach, integrating multidisciplinary input and behavior change principles.
  • Initial testing demonstrated positive user engagement and usability, with the app currently undergoing further evaluation in a clinical trial.
Abstract

Keywords:
appbreastfeedingfathersgamificationmHealthmobile phonesmartphonesocial connectivity

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