End Users' Perception on an AI Chatbot in a Snus Cessation Mobile Application.

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Mental Healthcare Technology

Background:

• Mobile health applications are increasingly used for behavior change.
• AI chatbots offer potential for personalized support in health interventions.
• User acceptance is crucial for the effectiveness of digital therapeutic tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate end-user perceptions of an AI chatbot as a virtual therapist within a mobile health application.
• To understand user preferences regarding AI chatbot features versus human interaction in a smoking cessation context.
• To identify challenges and opportunities for AI integration in therapeutic settings.

Main Methods:

• A design study was conducted on ExSnus, a prototype mobile health application for snus cessation.
• Usability testing was followed by an interview study with university students.
• Qualitative data was gathered on user experiences with the AI chatbot and a peer support forum.

Main Results:

• User opinions on the AI chatbot were mixed, with some appreciating its privacy and personalized advice.
• A significant portion of participants preferred the human connection offered by the forum over the AI.
• Participants expressed a preference for text-based interactions with the chatbot over voice-based communication.

Conclusions:

• Integrating AI chatbots into mental healthcare presents both challenges and opportunities.
• User-centered design is essential, considering individual preferences for AI versus human interaction.
• The findings underscore the need to balance technological capabilities with the human element in digital therapeutic interventions.