Smartphone-Delivered Behavioral Activation Interventions: Mapping User Engagement to Clinical Outcomes in Depression Treatment
Method Stream: Literature Review
ECs: Only 14 EC (standard, no new/own data collection. Applicable in case of a clinical internship)
Description:
Objective:
This thesis project examines the effectiveness of mobile-based behavioral activation interventions for depression. Specifically, it investigates patterns of user engagement, adherence factors, and their relationship to clinical outcomes within smartphone applications delivering behavioral activation therapy components.
Approach:
The student will conduct a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating mobile-based behavioral activation interventions for depression. Using established methodological quality assessment tools, the student will analyze intervention characteristics, engagement metrics (e.g., session completion, retention rates), and clinical outcomes. The analysis will identify which behavioral activation components are most effectively delivered via mobile platforms and explore factors influencing treatment adherence and symptom improvement. Additionally, the student will examine how various intervention designs (e.g., notification strategies, personalization features) impact user engagement and clinical outcomes.
Expected Outcomes:
This research will provide insights into optimizing mobile-based behavioral activation interventions for depression, identifying key engagement factors that predict positive outcomes, and offering design recommendations for future mobile mental health applications targeting depression.