Technology Use and Health Behavior in Diabetes: The Role of Motivation
Numerous health technology solutions are created to assist people with diabetes in managing their condition. However, some research indicates that technology use can lead to dissatisfaction. This study explores the connections between health technology use, the motivations behind technology adoption, and the resulting health behaviors of individuals with diabetes.
Study Overview
This research was conducted using a cross-sectional questionnaire involving 315 patients with diabetes. The study aimed to determine how different motivations for using technology affect how people with diabetes manage their health. Researchers used the Motivation, Engagement, and Thriving in User Experience (METUX) model, which suggests that technology’s benefits are linked to a sense of autonomy.
Research Methods
Researchers used the Technology Adoption Propensity Questionnaire to evaluate general attitudes toward technology. The Autonomy and Competence in Technology Adoption Questionnaire assessed underlying motives for technology use, and the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities measured health behaviors.
Key Findings
The results indicated that:
- Technology use was predicted by proficiency and lower levels of vulnerability and dependence. Optimism did not predict technology use.
- Technology use predicted the frequency of healthy behaviors like diet and exercise.
- Among technology users, autonomous motivation for technology use predicted better health behavior.
- Controlled motivation had a slightly negative effect on adherence to dietary guidelines.
These findings suggest that the design of health-related technology should focus on enhancing users’ proficiency and reducing their feelings of vulnerability and dependence on the technology.
Implications
The study emphasizes that autonomous motivation for technology adoption is crucial for improved health behavior. Designing interventions that promote a sense of self-determination can lead to more effective technology use. It’s not simply adopting technology, but the user’s internal drive for using it that matters most in managing diabetes.
This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). Correspondence: Csuka Imola Sára, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
