Quality Evaluation of Mobile Application for Daily Mood Regulation: A Review and Analysis using the Mobile Application Rating Scale

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to provide an overview of mobile application (app) for mood management and to assess the quality of these application using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS).Methods: The Google Play store was thoroughly explored in order to find apps that could help regulate daily moods. A total of 28 apps were selected. These mobile apps were analyzed with MARS questionnaires, which includes a total of 23 evaluation criteria organized into 6 categories (Engagement, Functionality, Aesthetics, Information, Subjective Quality, and App specific). In addition, we examined the features contained in of 28 different apps, focusing on those that measured mood and provided coping strategies.Results: The mean MARS score for the overall quality of the 28 apps was 3.48±0.81, with a maximum of 5 and a minimum of 0. Most apps received acceptable grades for Engagement and Aesthetics.Conclusion: MARS is a useful strategy for determining which apps can be recommended to users and which features should be modify to improve the quality of apps. This review shows that some apps match predetermined criteria for quality, content, or functionality, underlining the need for additional refining to evidence-based principles.