@article{2023:karnowski:more_than_,
title = {More than counting steps: Identifying types of self-tracking usage among German young adults},
year = {2023},
note = {Self-tracking technologies have been regarded both very optimistic and
very critical. However, these conclusions are often based on single
application studies and lack empirical evidence on actual
self-tracking usage. We set out to identify types of self-tracking
usage based on users’ mobile media ensembles and their varying
levels of engagement with the technology. Using latent class analysis,
we empirically identified three types of self-tracking usage based on
an online survey of a representative sample of N = 367 German
self-trackers aged 18 to 30. Results indicate interactive intensive
self-trackers spend more time physically active per week than
feedback-oriented basic self-trackers and purist step counters. In
addition, the injunctive norm-setting perception of algorithmic
feedback is significantly higher for feedback-oriented basic
self-trackers and interactive intensive self-trackers than purist step
counters. Future research should be aware of these differences in
young adults’ engagement with self-tracking of physical activity and
integrate them into empirical research, especially when aiming to
assess the effects of self-tracking.},
journal = {SCM Studies in Communication and Media},
pages = {92--113},
author = {Karnowski, Veronika and Reifegerste, Doreen},
volume = {12},
number = {1}
}