Identifying the content, capabilities, and design features of a mobile-based cognitive behavioral therapy...

The lack of alignment between a mobile application and the needs of end users, as the first step in the design and development process of a mobile application, can lead to its rejection. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the design requirements for a mobile-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) application for managing menopausal symptoms.

A qualitative study was conducted with twenty-five female participants, comprising health professionals and menopausal women. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using the content analysis method proposed by Lundman and Graneheim. Lincoln and Guba's criteria were applied to ensure the reliability of the data.

Three main themes emerged from the interviews: (i) mobile application content, (ii) mobile application capabilities, and (iii) the design features of the mobile application. Twelve categories and 52 subcategories were also identified. The content of the mobile application included the need for credible scientific information about menopause, education on the principles and techniques of CBT, and recommendations for motivation and morale boosting for users. Initial health assessments to identify symptoms, daily symptom tracking, personalized planning, communication, counseling and support, visual reports for monitoring changes, reminders, and customizable notifications were determined as necessary capabilities. Participants' recommendations for the structure and user interface of the mobile application, included information presentation, security, and privacy as essential characteristics of the mobile application.

This study identified key information for developing a mobile-based CBT program for managing menopausal symptoms. It also offers insights into the required functionalities when implementing mobile-based interventions.