Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026
04:54
Iterative Development of an Innovative Smartphone-Based Dietary Assessment Tool: Traqq
Published on: March 19, 2021
Smartphone apps for obesity management: A systematic review using self-determination theory
Alemayehu Mekonnen1, Andrea Jasper2, Kathryn Barnette2
1Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Australia.
International Journal of Medical Informatics
|August 3, 2026
Summary
Smartphone apps show promise for obesity management, especially post-bariatric surgery. While some apps aid weight loss and adherence, more research is needed to confirm broader benefits and improve self-management support.
Area of Science:
- Obesity Management
- Digital Health Interventions
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Obesity treatments like bariatric surgery and pharmacotherapy require ongoing support, which is challenging.
- Smartphone applications (apps) may help manage symptoms, but their effectiveness in obesity treatment is unclear.
- This review assesses apps' effectiveness, acceptability, and feasibility in supporting individuals post-obesity treatment, analyzing design via Self-Determination Theory (SDT).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness, acceptability, and feasibility of smartphone apps in supporting individuals after obesity treatment.
- To analyze app design using Self-Determination Theory (SDT) to understand how they promote sustained engagement and behavior change.
Main Methods:
- A systematic search of seven databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, SCOPUS, CENTRAL) was conducted.
- Included studies involved adults (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) undergoing bariatric surgery or pharmacotherapy, using apps for post-treatment symptom management.
- Findings were narratively synthesized, and app features were mapped to SDT constructs (autonomy, competence, relatedness).
Main Results:
- Five studies (1,133 participants) were included, mostly targeting post-bariatric surgery care.
- Common app features (tracking, reminders, education) supported autonomy and competence; relatedness features were less common.
- Two studies showed improved weight-related outcomes, one improved medication adherence; other outcomes (quality of life, self-efficacy) were not significant. Patient satisfaction was high (95%), but feasibility/acceptability assessments were limited.
Conclusions:
- Smartphone apps demonstrate potential for supporting obesity management, particularly after bariatric surgery.
- Evidence suggests benefits for weight loss and adherence, but limited studies hinder conclusive findings on other outcomes.
- Future app development should integrate behavioral theory to address psychological needs and promote holistic self-management.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques VI
Adopting a healthier lifestyle often requires overcoming significant challenges, but leveraging psychological, social, and cultural resources can facilitate meaningful change. Effective self-change hinges on understanding and applying key tools such as motivation and goal setting, which help sustain efforts toward long-term health benefits.
Motivation and Self-Determination
Motivation, the driving force behind behavior, plays a pivotal role at every stage of the change process. The research...
Motivation and Self-Determination
Motivation, the driving force behind behavior, plays a pivotal role at every stage of the change process. The research...
02:45Self-Discrepancy Theory
One influential perspective on what motivates people's behavior is detailed in Tory Higgin's self-discrepancy theory (Higgins, 1987). He proposed that people hold disagreeing internal representations of themselves that lead to different emotional states.
01:17Ryan and Deci's Self-Determination Theory
Self-Determination Theory (SDT), formulated by Richard Ryan and Edward Deci, explains that human motivation is driven by three fundamental psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. When these needs are met, individuals experience personal growth, intrinsic motivation, and overall well-being.
Autonomy is the need to feel in control of one's actions and decisions. For example, a student who chooses their research topic is likely to be more engaged and motivated than one who is...
Autonomy is the need to feel in control of one's actions and decisions. For example, a student who chooses their research topic is likely to be more engaged and motivated than one who is...