A Mobile Intervention for Self-Efficacious and Goal-Directed Smartphone Use in the General Population: Randomized...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Digital Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Problematic smartphone use is prevalent, leading to negative psychological and physiological consequences.
• Current interventions often focus on monitoring and restriction, neglecting psychological resources.
• Digital detox interventions may not fully address the underlying psychological factors of excessive smartphone use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a theory-based app, "Not Less But Better," designed to foster goal-directed smartphone use.
• To assess the app's effectiveness in increasing awareness of psychological processes during smartphone use.
• To support users in aligning smartphone usage with personal goals and values.

Main Methods:

• A 20-day randomized controlled trial with five 4-day training modules.
• Comparison between a goal-directed app intervention and a digital detox control group.
• Repeated assessments of problematic smartphone use, smartphone unlocks, screen time, self-efficacy, and planning.

Main Results:

• Both intervention and control groups showed significant reductions in problematic smartphone use and time spent on smartphones.
• Self-efficacy changes mediated the intervention's effect on problematic smartphone use.
• Planning changes indirectly influenced problematic smartphone use through smartphone unlocks.

Conclusions:

• The "Not Less But Better" app is a viable alternative to digital detox treatments for reducing problematic smartphone use.
• Enhancing self-efficacy and planning skills are crucial for improving smartphone usage.
• Future research should address participant attrition in digital interventions.