scholarly journals The Effects of Gamification and Oral Self-Care on Oral Hygiene in Children: Systematic Search in App Stores and Evaluation of Apps (Preprint)

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nino Fijačko ◽  
Lucija Gosak ◽  
Leona Cilar ◽  
Alenka Novšak ◽  
Ruth Masterson Creber ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Behavior Change ◽  
Oral Hygiene ◽  
Rating Scale ◽  
Self Care ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Mobile App ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Behavior Change Techniques ◽  
Evidence Based Dentistry

BACKGROUND Poor oral hygiene is a great public health problem worldwide. Oral health care education is a public health priority as the maintenance of oral hygiene is integral to overall health. Maintaining optimal oral hygiene among children is challenging and can be supported by using relevant motivational approaches. OBJECTIVE The primary aim of this study was to identify mobile smartphone apps that include gamification features focused on motivating children to learn, perform, and maintain optimal oral hygiene. METHODS We searched six online app stores using four search terms (“oral hygiene game,” “oral hygiene gamification,” “oral hygiene brush game,” and “oral hygiene brush gamification”). We identified gamification features, identified whether apps were consistent with evidence-based dentistry, performed a quality appraisal with the Mobile App Rating Scale user version (uMARS), and quantified behavior scores (Behavior Change score, uMARS score, and Coventry, Aberdeen, and London-Refined [CALO-RE] score) using three different instruments that measure behavior change. RESULTS Of 612 potentially relevant apps included in the analysis, 17 met the inclusion criteria. On average, apps included 6.87 (SD 4.18) out of 31 possible gamification features. The most frequently used gamification features were time pressure (16/17, 94%), virtual characters (14/17, 82%), and fantasy (13/17, 76%). The most common oral hygiene evidence-based recommendation was brushing time (2-3 minutes), which was identified in 94% (16/17) of apps. The overall mean uMARS score for app quality was high (4.30, SD 0.36), with good mean subjective quality (3.79, SD 0.71) and perceived impact (3.58, SD 0.44). Sufficient behavior change techniques based on three taxonomies were detected in each app. CONCLUSIONS The majority of the analyzed oral hygiene apps included gamification features and behavior change techniques to perform and maintain oral hygiene in children. Overall, the apps contained some educational content consistent with evidence-based dentistry and high-quality background for oral self-care in children; however, there is scope for improvement.

scholarly journals The Effects of Gamification and Oral Self-Care on Oral Hygiene in Children: Systematic Search in App Stores and Evaluation of Apps

10.2196/16365 ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (7) ◽  
pp. e16365
Author(s):  
Nino Fijačko ◽  
Lucija Gosak ◽  
Leona Cilar ◽  
Alenka Novšak ◽  
Ruth Masterson Creber ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Behavior Change ◽  
Oral Hygiene ◽  
Rating Scale ◽  
Self Care ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Mobile App ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Behavior Change Techniques ◽  
Evidence Based Dentistry

Background Poor oral hygiene is a great public health problem worldwide. Oral health care education is a public health priority as the maintenance of oral hygiene is integral to overall health. Maintaining optimal oral hygiene among children is challenging and can be supported by using relevant motivational approaches. Objective The primary aim of this study was to identify mobile smartphone apps that include gamification features focused on motivating children to learn, perform, and maintain optimal oral hygiene. Methods We searched six online app stores using four search terms (“oral hygiene game,” “oral hygiene gamification,” “oral hygiene brush game,” and “oral hygiene brush gamification”). We identified gamification features, identified whether apps were consistent with evidence-based dentistry, performed a quality appraisal with the Mobile App Rating Scale user version (uMARS), and quantified behavior scores (Behavior Change score, uMARS score, and Coventry, Aberdeen, and London-Refined [CALO-RE] score) using three different instruments that measure behavior change. Results Of 612 potentially relevant apps included in the analysis, 17 met the inclusion criteria. On average, apps included 6.87 (SD 4.18) out of 31 possible gamification features. The most frequently used gamification features were time pressure (16/17, 94%), virtual characters (14/17, 82%), and fantasy (13/17, 76%). The most common oral hygiene evidence-based recommendation was brushing time (2-3 minutes), which was identified in 94% (16/17) of apps. The overall mean uMARS score for app quality was high (4.30, SD 0.36), with good mean subjective quality (3.79, SD 0.71) and perceived impact (3.58, SD 0.44). Sufficient behavior change techniques based on three taxonomies were detected in each app. Conclusions The majority of the analyzed oral hygiene apps included gamification features and behavior change techniques to perform and maintain oral hygiene in children. Overall, the apps contained some educational content consistent with evidence-based dentistry and high-quality background for oral self-care in children; however, there is scope for improvement.

A systematic evaluation of primary headache management apps leveraging behavior change techniques

Cephalalgia ◽  
2021 ◽  
pp. 033310242110535
Author(s):  
Amy E Noser ◽  
Kimberly L Klages ◽  
Kaitlyn L Gamwell ◽  
Caitlin N Brammer ◽  
Kevin A Hommel ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Behavior Change ◽  
Relaxation Training ◽  
Rating Scale ◽  
Mobile App ◽  
Systematic Evaluation ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Management Behavior ◽  
Behavior Change Techniques ◽  
Self Monitoring ◽  
Headache Management

Background Mobile health apps have the potential to promote adherence to headache management through the use of evidence-based behavior change techniques (e.g., self-monitoring). While many headache management apps exist, the extent to which these apps include behavior change techniques remains unknown. Thus, the present study systematically evaluated the content and quality of commercially available headache management apps. Methods Headache apps were identified using a systematic search in the Apple App and Google Play stores. A total of 55 apps were evaluated using the taxonomy of behavior change techniques and app quality using the Mobile App Rating Scale. Results Headache management apps included 0–14 behavior change techniques (Mean [M] = 5.89) and 0–8 headache management behavior change techniques (M = 4.29). App quality ranged from 2.84–4.67 (M = 3.73) out of 5.00. Three apps, Migraine Trainer, Easeday: Headache & Migraine, and PainScale, included the highest number of overall and headache management behavior change techniques along with good quality scores. Conclusions While randomized controlled trials are necessary to determine the efficacy of individual headache apps, most existing apps include evidence-based headache management behavior change techniques. Headache apps often focus on either self-monitoring or stress management via relaxation training, suggesting that patients’ needs should be used to inform app selection.

scholarly journals Barriers and Facilitators That Influence Providers’ Ability to Educate, Monitor, and Treat Substance Use in First-Episode Psychosis Programs Using the Theoretical Domains Framework

2021 ◽  
pp. 104973232199344
Author(s):  
Oladunni Oluwoye ◽  
Elizabeth Fraser
Keyword(s):  
Substance Use ◽  
Behavior Change ◽  
Theoretical Domains Framework ◽  
First Episode Psychosis ◽  
Barriers And Facilitators ◽  
First Episode ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Behavior Change Techniques ◽  
Episode Psychosis ◽  
And Behavior

In this qualitative study, we explore providers’ experiences with addressing substance use among individuals with first-episode psychosis (FEP) enrolled in coordinated specialty care (CSC) programs. Three focus groups were conducted with 24 providers from CSC programs for FEP in Washington. Questions were focused on barriers and facilitators to addressing substance use using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) as a guide. Thematic analysis was used to code all transcripts. Identified TDF domains were then mapped onto the COM-B (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behavior) intervention functions and behavior change techniques. Seven theoretical domains were identified as the most relevant to addressing substance use: “Knowledge,” “Skills,” “Environmental Context and Resources,” “Social Influences,” “Social and Professional Role and Identity,” “Beliefs about Capabilities,” and “Reinforcement.” The use of the TDF provides a framework to explore barriers and facilitators for targeting substance use and suggestions for behavior change techniques when considering implementation of evidence-based strategies to enhance CSC models.

scholarly journals Adults’ Preferences for Behavior Change Techniques and Engagement Features in a Mobile App to Promote 24-Hour Movement Behaviors: Cross-Sectional Survey Study (Preprint)

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ann DeSmet ◽  
Ilse De Bourdeaudhuij ◽  
Sebastien Chastin ◽  
Geert Crombez ◽  
Ralph Maddison ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Behavior Change ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Self Regulation ◽  
Mobile App ◽  
User Preferences ◽  
Movement Behavior ◽  
Survey Study ◽  
User Engagement ◽  
Behavior Change Techniques ◽  
Self Monitoring

BACKGROUND There is a limited understanding of components that should be included in digital interventions for 24-hour movement behaviors (physical activity [PA], sleep, and sedentary behavior [SB]). For intervention effectiveness, user engagement is important. This can be enhanced by a user-centered design to, for example, explore and integrate user preferences for intervention techniques and features. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine adult users’ preferences for techniques and features in mobile apps for 24-hour movement behaviors. METHODS A total of 86 participants (mean age 37.4 years [SD 9.2]; 49/86, 57% female) completed a Web-based survey. Behavior change techniques (BCTs) were based on a validated taxonomy v2 by Abraham and Michie, and engagement features were based on a list extracted from the literature. Behavioral data were collected using Fitbit trackers. Correlations, (repeated measures) analysis of variance, and independent sample <italic>t</italic> tests were used to examine associations and differences between and within users by the type of health domain and users’ behavioral intention and adoption. RESULTS Preferences were generally the highest for information on the health consequences of movement behavior self-monitoring, behavioral feedback, insight into healthy lifestyles, and tips and instructions. Although the same ranking was found for techniques across behaviors, preferences were stronger for all but one BCT for PA in comparison to the other two health behaviors. Although techniques fit user preferences for addressing PA well, supplemental techniques may be able to address preferences for sleep and SB in a better manner. In addition to what is commonly included in apps, sleep apps should consider providing tips for sleep. SB apps may wish to include more self-regulation and goal-setting techniques. Few differences were found by users’ intentions or adoption to change a particular behavior. Apps should provide more self-monitoring (<italic>P</italic>=.03), information on behavior health outcome (<italic>P</italic>=.048), and feedback (<italic>P</italic>=.04) and incorporate social support (<italic>P</italic>=.048) to help those who are further removed from healthy sleep. A virtual coach (<italic>P</italic><.001) and video modeling (<italic>P</italic>=.004) may provide appreciated support to those who are physically less active. PA self-monitoring appealed more to those with an intention to change PA (<italic>P</italic>=.03). Social comparison and support features are not high on users’ agenda and may not be needed from an engagement point of view. Engagement features may not be very relevant for user engagement but should be examined in future research with a less reflective method. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study provide guidance for the design of digital 24-hour movement behavior interventions. As 24-hour movement guidelines are increasingly being adopted in several countries, our study findings are timely to support the design of interventions to meet these guidelines.

scholarly journals Addressing College Drinking as a Statewide Public Health Problem: Key Findings From the Maryland Collaborative

2017 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 303-313 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amelia M. Arria ◽  
David H. Jernigan
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Health Problem ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
College Drinking ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Student Survey ◽  
Evidence Based Practices ◽  
Research Attention ◽  
Individual Level ◽  
High Risk Drinking

Excessive drinking among college students is a serious and pervasive public health problem. Although much research attention has focused on developing and evaluating evidence-based practices to address college drinking, adoption has been slow. The Maryland Collaborative to Reduce College Drinking and Related Problems was established in 2012 to bring together a network of institutions of higher education in Maryland to collectively address college drinking by using both individual-level and environmental-level evidence-based approaches. In this article, the authors describe the findings of this multilevel, multicomponent statewide initiative. To date, the Maryland Collaborative has succeeded in providing a forum for colleges to share knowledge and experiences, strengthen existing strategies, and engage in a variety of new activities. Administration of an annual student survey has been useful for guiding interventions as well as evaluating progress toward the Maryland Collaborative’s goal to measurably reduce high-risk drinking and its radiating consequences on student health, safety, and academic performance and on the communities surrounding college campuses. The experiences of the Maryland Collaborative exemplify real-world implementation of evidence-based approaches to reduce this serious public health problem.

Toward Evidence-Based Smartphone Apps to Enhance Human Health: Adoption of Behavior Change Techniques

2018 ◽  
Vol 49 (4) ◽  
pp. 210-213 ◽  
Author(s):  
Christopher K. Rhea ◽  
Danielle T. Felsberg ◽  
Jaclyn P. Maher
Keyword(s):  
Behavior Change ◽  
Human Health ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Smartphone Apps ◽  
Behavior Change Techniques

Refining an Oral Health Care Partner Intervention Using Behavior Change Techniques

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 415-415
Author(s):  
Rachel Hirschey ◽  
Courtney Caiola ◽  
Ya-Ning Chan ◽  
Brenda Plassman ◽  
Bei Wu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Oral Health ◽  
Behavior Change ◽  
Oral Hygiene ◽  
Oral Care ◽  
The Self ◽  
Behavior Changes ◽  
Behavior Change Techniques ◽  
Mild Dementia ◽  
Use Behavior

Abstract Following a pilot, we refined an oral health carepartner intervention for individuals with mild dementia (IMD). In this intervention, we use behavior change techniques (BCTs) to foster changes by carepartners including using new oral-care techniques and developing skills for using cueing and communications approaches to support behavior changes by IMD (duration and frequency of toothbrushing and oral-hygiene skills); thus, improving plaque and gingival indices. We describe our approach to refining the intervention manual including a) completing the self-paced BCT taxonomy course, b) developing a coding schema, c) coding the original manual for evidence of BCTs, and d) refining the manual to improve use of BCTS in the refined intervention. Our results detail how BCTs can be applied to refine and improve interventions. This research demonstrates the value in using BCTs for interventions to address how carepartners and IMD can collaborate to improve oral hygiene care.

Effective behavior change techniques in asthma self-care interventions: Systematic review and meta-regression.

2014 ◽  
Vol 33 (7) ◽  
pp. 577-587 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah Denford ◽  
Rod S. Taylor ◽  
John L. Campbell ◽  
Colin J. Greaves
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Behavior Change ◽  
Self Care ◽  
Behavior Change Techniques ◽  
Meta Regression ◽  
Effective Behavior

scholarly journals Mobile Apps for Speech-Language Therapy in Adults With Communication Disorders: Review of Content and Quality

10.2196/18858 ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (10) ◽  
pp. e18858
Author(s):  
Atiyeh Vaezipour ◽  
Jessica Campbell ◽  
Deborah Theodoros ◽  
Trevor Russell
Keyword(s):  
Rating Scale ◽  
Mobile Apps ◽  
Communication Disorders ◽  
Mobile App ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Language Therapy ◽  
Eligibility Criteria ◽  
App Store ◽  
Google Play

Background Worldwide, more than 75% of people with acquired brain injury (ABI) experience communication disorders. Communication disorders are impairments in the ability to communicate effectively, that is, sending, receiving, processing, and comprehending verbal and nonverbal concepts and symbols. Such disorders may have enduring impacts on employment, social participation, and quality of life. Technology-enabled interventions such as mobile apps have the potential to increase the reach of speech-language therapy to treat communication disorders. However, ensuring that apps are evidence-based and of high quality is critical for facilitating safe and effective treatment for adults with communication disorders. Objective The aim of this review is to identify mobile apps that are currently widely available to adults with communication disorders for speech-language therapy and to assess their content and quality using the validated Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS). Methods Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and webpages were searched to identify mobile apps for speech-language therapy. Apps were included in the review if they were designed for the treatment of adult communication disorders after ABI, were in English, and were either free or for purchase. Certified speech-language pathologists used the MARS to assess the quality of the apps. Results From a total of 2680 apps identified from Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and web searches, 2.61% (70/2680) apps met the eligibility criteria for inclusion. Overall, 61% (43/70) were available for download on the iPhone Operating System (iOS) platform, 20% (14/70) on the Android platform, and 19% (13/70) on both iOS and Android platforms. A content analysis of the apps revealed 43 apps for language, 17 apps for speech, 8 apps for cognitive communication, 6 apps for voice, and 5 apps for oromotor function or numeracy. The overall MARS mean score was 3.7 out of 5, SD 0.6, ranging between 2.1 and 4.5, with functionality being the highest-scored subscale (4.3, SD 0.6), followed by aesthetics (3.8, SD 0.8), information (3.4, SD 0.6), and engagement (3.3, SD 0.6). The top 5 apps were Naming Therapy (4.6/5), Speech Flipbook Standard (4.6/5), Number Therapy (4.5/5), Answering Therapy, and Constant Therapy (4.4/5). Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first study to systematically identify and evaluate a broad range of mobile apps for speech-language therapy for adults with communication disorders after sustaining ABI. We found a lack of interactive and engaging elements in the apps, a critical factor in sustaining self-managed speech-language therapy. More evidence-based apps with a focus on human factors, user experience, and a patient-led design approach are required to enhance effectiveness and long-term use.

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