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Exploring the Impact of Wearable Devices on Perceived Stress and Health Anxiety: A Mixed-Methods Approach

Oostrum, J.M. van (2024) Exploring the Impact of Wearable Devices on Perceived Stress and Health Anxiety: A Mixed-Methods Approach.

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Abstract:This study explored the psychosocial effects of wearable smartwatches on perceived stress and health anxiety using a mixed methods approach. A within-subject replicated counterbalanced AB design involved 26 Dutch participants aged 19 to 59 (84.6% male), who wore a smartwatch for one week and did not for another. The study counterbalanced by having some participants wear the smartwatch in the first week and others in the second. Quantitative data was collected via daily and weekly questionnaires using the PSS-10 and SHAI-14, analyzed through linear mixed models. No significant effect of the smartwatch's presence on perceived stress or health anxiety was found for the overall sample. Qualitative semi-structured interviews provided deeper insights, revealing that while most participants reported no or limited change, some experienced decreased stress and health anxiety due to increased awareness and comforting feedback from the smartwatch. Conversely, some participants mentioned an increase in perceived stress not reflected in their scores. These findings indicate that the impact of smartwatches on perceived stress and health anxiety is complex and individual-specific. Future studies should use a longitudinal design with a sequential exploratory approach and include individuals more susceptible to stress and anxiety to better understand the potential impacts and mechanisms involved.
Item Type:Essay (Bachelor)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:77 psychology
Programme:Psychology BSc (56604)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/100047
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