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This study aims to address a research gap related to the outcomes of the use of technology when the performance falls short of initial expectations, and the coping mechanisms that users may deploy in such circumstances. By adopting Cognitive Dissonance Theory, the objectives of the study are a) to examine how dissonance, caused by the negative disconfirmation of expectations, may translate into a positive outcome and b) study how negative emotions, such as anger, guilt and regret, determine the selection of the mechanism to reduce dissonance. The theorised model was tested using a cross-sectional research design and a sample of 387 smart home users. The focus on smart home users fitted the objectives of the study due to the high expectations that users form and the challenges that the utilisation of technology sometimes causes. The collected data was analysed using structural equation modelling. Findings indicate that post-disconfirmation dissonance induces feelings of anger, guilt and regret, correlating with dissonance reduction mechanisms, which in turn have a distinctive effect on satisfaction and wellbeing. The findings of the study contribute to the discussion on expectation-disconfirmation and cognitive dissonance, by illustrating the interrelationship between emotional, cognitive and behavioural factors following the evaluation of technology performance and confirming that negative disconfirmation may result in satisfaction.

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Technology acceptance in private spaces has not received much attention, although users' behaviour may be different due to the space in which usage takes place. To address this gap, the present study proposed a model exploring individuals' values, users' perception of technology performance and attitudinal beliefs in relation to use behaviour and satisfaction when using smart technologies in their homes. The study employed a sample of 422 participants in the USA. Structural equation modelling was utilised to test the proposed hypotheses. The model provided robust results explaining factors underpinning the use of pervasive technology in private settings. Specifically, the study showed that hedonic and utilitarian beliefs are critical for the perception of task fit, whereas privacy and financial factors were found to be not significant. The fit between tasks and technology demonstrated a significant role in predicting perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, use behaviour, and satisfaction. Lastly, use behaviour showed a positive correlation with satisfaction.

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