Improving Adherence in Automated e-Coaching: A Case from Insomnia Therapy

Abstract

Non-adherence is considered a problem that seriously undermines the outcome of behavior change therapies, in particular of self-help therapies delivered without human interference. This paper presents the design rationale behind a computer system in the domain of adherence enhancing strategies in automated e-coaching. A variety of persuasive strategies is introduced and implemented in a mobile e-coaching system in the domain of insomnia therapy. The system integrates two types of interface elements, i.e. dedicated tools and natural language conversation, to simplify therapy related activities and to include social strategies to improve motivation. We focus on the crucial role of communication and adaptation.