How Persuasive is a Virtual Coach in Terms of Promoting Web-based Intervention User Engagement? : Exploring a Potential Match between User Support Needs and a Virtual Coach’s Motivational Capabilities
Year: 2016
Type: conference-paper
Study design: Study Protocol
Abstract: A selection of web-based eHealth interventions have evolved from innovative prototypes to evidence-based and clinically applied solutions for mental diseases such as depression and anxiety. Open-access, self-guided types of those solutions hold the promise of reaching and treating a large population against reasonable costs. However, a considerable factor that currently hinders the effectiveness of these self-guided web-based interventions is the high level of attrition. The absence of a human caregiver apparently has a negative effect on user adherence. Although clear evidence on the rationale for non-adherence is currently missing, recent studies indicate that user support could an important causal factor. In this paper we describe the protocol of an exploratory user study which aims to identify the persuasive features of virtual coaches in terms of user support. Virtual coaches are anthropomorphized instances of software, designed to engage and motivate users. We will measure user experience, engagement, motivation and perceived persuasiveness during usage of the ‘Living to the Full’ intervention. We will compare a condition with and without empathic virtual coach condition to explore its supportive capabilities.
Language: English
Subfield: Applied Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2569107768