A Randomized Control Trial to Assess the Efficacy of a Gamified Mobile Application Intervention to Increase Physical Activity and Reduce Anxiety in Adults with Autism Spectrum Diagnoses (ASD).
Study on a Gamified Mobile App for Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Anxiety
Brief description of study.
This study examines the efficacy of a gamified, mobile app, Puzzle Walk, on increasing physical activity and reducing anxiety among adults with autism spectrum diagnoses (ASD).
Detailed description of study
The research purposes are to
(1) Compare Puzzle Walk vs. non-gamified, non- behavior change technique (BCT) based, commercially available mobile apps on increasing PA and reducing anxiety in adults with ASD, and
(2) Compare the impact of gamification and BCT design elements on mobile app adherence and usage between PA mobile apps with and without these features.
Questions to be answered are as follows.
1. Will using a gamified mobile app increase physical activity in adults with ASD?
2. Will using a gamified mobile app reduce anxiety in adults with ASD?
3. Does the gamification and BCT features facilitate increasing app adherence and usage in the target population?
4. Would this intervention be applicable in a larger-scale study?
Eligibility of study
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:
- Conditions: Autism Spectrum Diagnoses (ASD).
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Age: 18 years - 60 years
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Gender: All
Inclusion:
(1) diagnosed with an autism spectrum condition and co-occurring anxiety by a qualified professional,
(2) aged between 18 and 60 years,
(3) able to ambulate without an assistive device (ex: wheelchair, crutches, etc.),
(4) cognitively able to understand the purpose of this study.
(5) have access to a supported device (smart phones with Android 4.4+ or iOS 12.0+ operating system), and
(6) when necessary, have parent/caregiver permission to use the device.
Exclusion:
(1) Adults with orthopedic or other health conditions that interfere with independent ambulation or the ability to engage in study procedures (e.g. aggressive behavior).
This study investigates the effectiveness of a gamified mobile app called Puzzle Walk in increasing physical activity and reducing anxiety in adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects communication and behavior. The study aims to compare this app with other non-gamified, commercially available apps that do not use behavior change techniques (BCT) to see if the gamified approach is more effective.
Participants in this study will use the Puzzle Walk app, which includes gamification and BCT features, to see if these elements help increase adherence and usage of the app. The study will examine whether the app can effectively increase physical activity and reduce anxiety among adults with ASD, and if these features encourage continued use of the app.
- Who can participate: Adults aged 18 to 60 years with a diagnosis of autism spectrum condition and co-occurring anxiety can participate. They must be able to walk without assistance, understand the study's purpose, and have access to a smartphone with Android 4.4+ or iOS 12.0+.
- Study details: Participants will use a gamified mobile app designed to increase physical activity and reduce anxiety. The app includes behavior change techniques to encourage regular use.
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