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

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Volume Title

School of Arts, Design and Architecture | Bachelor's thesis
Ask about the availability of the thesis by sending email to the Aalto University Learning Centre oppimiskeskus@aalto.fi

Authors

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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Citation

Permanent link to this item

https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:aalto-202407145108

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[kand] Taiteiden ja suunnittelun korkeakoulu / ARTS