Media Effects Research Lab - Research Archive
A Survey Study of Fitness and Food Logging Apps, and the People Who Use Them
Student Researcher(s)
Nathan Aileo (Ph.D Candidate);
Jake Weidman (Ph.D Candidate);
Faculty Supervisor
Abstract
The growing problem of obesity is affecting more people every year. Research into factors contributing to the rise of obesity point to poor food selection and exercise habits that may be rooted in a lack of education on the subjects. The rise of the smartphone platforms, fitness apps, and health-related web tools seem like a likely source of aid in reducing the problems of obesity. Through a survey and analysis we sought to review the current state of research in this field and extend theoretical explanations for some phenomenon where applicable. Our results were surprising in some cases and bear further explanation, but we believe we have helped extend the understanding of how mobile health applications such as food journaling may fit into the world of managing health as well as design implications and areas for further research.
For more details regarding the study contact
Dr. S. Shyam Sundar by e-mail at sss12@psu.edu or by telephone at (814) 865-2173