Target-user preferences, motivations, and acceptance for a dialectical behaviour therapy smartphone application for eating disorders

Abstract Purpose Evidence shows that dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) is efficacious for eating disorders (ED), yet few people have access to specialized treatments like DBT. Translating key DBT skills for delivery via a smartphone application may broaden the dissemination of evidence-based interventions. However, prior to developing a DBT-based app, it is crucial to gather information on target-user needs and preferences. Assessing overall acceptance and identifying predictors of acceptance, informed by the UTAUT framework, is also important. This process ensures not only a demand for such an app, but also that users receive content and features tailored to their needs. Method This study aimed to understand target-user preferences of DBT-based apps for EDs by assessing willingness to engage, overall acceptance levels, and preferred functionality/content delivery modes (n = 326 symptomatic participants). Results Eighty-eight percent indicated they would be willing to use a DBT-based ED app if it were available. Acceptance levels of a DBT app were high (64%), which was uniquely predicted by performance expectancy (perceptions of how beneficial an intervention is) and facilitating conditions (expectations of technological infrastructure and support in interventions) in path analysis. Content perceived as important to contain were emotion regulation techniques, tailored intervention strategies, and psychoeducation. Conclusion Findings generate important information about target-user preferences of a DBT-based app for EDs, highlighting necessary design principles for apps of this kind. Level of evidence Level V, cross-sectional descriptive study.