A Comprehensive Review of Behavior Change Techniques in Wearables and IoT: Implications for Health and Well-Being

Abstract

This research paper delves into the effectiveness and impact of behavior change techniques fostered by information technologies, particularly wearables and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, within the realms of engineering and computer science. By conducting a comprehensive review of the relevant literature sourced from the Scopus database, this study aims to elucidate the mechanisms and strategies employed by these technologies to facilitate behavior change and their potential benefits to individuals and society. Through statistical measurements and related works, our work explores the trends over a span of two decades, from 2000 to 2023, to understand the evolving landscape of behavior change techniques in wearable and IoT technologies. A specific focus is placed on a case study examining the application of behavior change techniques (BCTs) for monitoring vital signs using wearables, underscoring the relevance and urgency of further investigation in this critical intersection of technology and human behavior. The findings shed light on the promising role of wearables and IoT devices for promoting positive behavior modifications and improving individuals’ overall well-being and highlighting the need for continued research and development in this area to harness the full potential of technology for societal benefit.

Unintended Consequences of Digital Behavior Change Interventions

“…In this paper, we focus on Digital Behavior Change Interventions (DBCIs) that support the prevention of diseases and the promotion of health on an individual level – that is, interventions that employ digital health technologies for behavior modification to improve and maintain health (Yardley et al, 2016). These digital health technologies include not only mobile phone applications (Maaß et al, 2022) but also wearables, environmental sensors, and Internet of Things devices that can provide intelligent monitoring and feedback as and when needed (Del-Valle-Soto et al, 2024), such as “Just-In-Time Adaptive Interventions” (Nahum-Shani et al, 2018) or “Ecological Momentary Interventions” (Heron & Smyth, 2010). According to the recent evidence standard framework for digital health technologies from NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, 2023), these DBCIs would fall into classification Tier B (lifestyle-related) – that is, helping individuals to manage their own health and well-being by communicating about health and care information, encouraging behaviors that promote good health (with non-personalized information and resources) and tracking health and care diaries.…”