Adapting an Evidence-Based e-Learning Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program Into a Mobile App for People Experiencing...

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Many individuals experiencing gambling harms face barriers to traditional treatment.
• Mobile health (mHealth) interventions offer a promising, accessible modality for support.
• Limited mHealth interventions currently exist in the gambling harm field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand user needs and preferences for a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) mHealth intervention.
• To inform the design, features, and functions of an mHealth tool for problem gambling.
• To enhance accessibility and engagement for individuals seeking gambling harm support.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was used, adapting a web-based program into an mHealth prototype.
• Focus groups with young adults, Māori, and Pasifika peoples with gambling harm experiences were conducted.
• Co-creation processes guided the refinement of design, features, and content based on user input.

Main Results:

• The intervention was restructured into 6 modules, incorporating the transtheoretical model for varied readiness to change.
• Focus groups identified personalization, cultural relevance, and positive framing as key attributes for the Manaaki app.
• User feedback directly shaped the final features, functions, and design of the mHealth intervention.

Conclusions:

• mHealth interventions have significant potential to reach individuals who do not seek traditional help for gambling harms.
• Integrating end-user input into mHealth design is crucial for developing effective and engaging interventions.
• While not guaranteeing success, user-centered design increases the likelihood of demonstrating effectiveness in mHealth gambling support.