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Effects of a Smartphone-Based Positive Reflection Diary on Work Engagement Among Japanese Workers: Randomized
Masahito Tokita1, Shuichiro Kobayashi2, Daisuke Miyanaka3,4
1Keio University, Keio Research Institute at SFC, Fujisawa, Japan.
JMIR Mhealth and Uhealth
|September 25, 2025
Summary
A smartphone app promoting positive reflection on work achievements significantly improved work engagement among Japanese workers. This tool enhances personal resources, contributing to overall well-being and job satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health Psychology
- Digital Health Interventions
- Employee Well-being
Background:
- Work engagement is crucial for employee well-being.
- Personal resources, enhanced by reflecting on achievements, are key to work engagement.
- A smartphone app can facilitate recording and reflection on work accomplishments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a smartphone-based diary on work engagement.
- To assess the effectiveness of positive reflection in daily work life.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial with 600 Japanese workers.
- Intervention group used a 'Work Engagement Diary' app for 2 weeks.
- Work engagement measured at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-week follow-up.
Main Results:
- Significant improvement in work engagement in the intervention group compared to the control group (P=.04).
- Small effect sizes observed for work engagement improvements at post-intervention and follow-up.
- The smartphone-based diary demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing work engagement.
Conclusions:
- A smartphone-based positive reflection diary effectively improved work engagement in Japanese workers.
- Further research is needed to explore long-term effects and intervention mechanisms.
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