Designing For Better Sleep: The Role of Psychologist Insights in The Design of Sleep-Tracking Applications

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School of Arts, Design and Architecture | Bachelor's thesis
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Date
2024
Department
Major/Subject
Major of Design
Mcode
Degree programme
Bachelor's Programme in Design
Language
en
Pages
48
Series
Abstract
The purpose of this thesis is to determine how application of psychological principles can improve the design and functionality of sleep-tracking apps to enhance user engagement and contribute to the development of healthy sleeping habits. The study employed the qualitative research method, which involved semi-structured interviews with seven psychologists who specialize in sleep behavior and cognitive therapy. This research examines the psychological aspects that drive users’ engagement with sleep tracking applications. The results suggest that a simplistic and harmonic interface to decrease the user's cognitive load, personalized tips built on the personal sleep data, and sleep environment analysis tools can improve sleep quality. Additionally, it was found that the incorporation of gamification and social components to enhance user engagement, along with professional guidance and on-demand support, were identified as crucial. Moreover, providing sleep hygiene educational content and integrating behavioral techniques, such as setting goals and tracking progress, are fundamental aspects for establishing lasting sleep habits. The study narrowly considers information from Polish psychologists, mostly women. The study pays particular attention to integrating these findings into user-centered, effective sleep tracking applications.
Description
Supervisor
Joseph, Antony
Thesis advisor
Sanchez, Camilo
Keywords
sleep-tracking technology, user engagement, digital health, habit formation, sleep disorders, therapist perspectives
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