Clement A, Ravet M, Stanger C, Gabrielli J. Feasibility, usability, and acceptability of MobileCoach-Teen: A smartphone app-based preventative intervention for risky adolescent drinking behavior. J Subst Use Addict Treat. 2024;159:209275. doi:10.1016/j.josat.2023.209275
This study examined the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of MobileCoach-Teen (MC-Teen). MC-Teen is a smartphone-based intervention based on social cognitive theory that aims to prevent risky alcohol drinking behaviors in adolescents. The application, developed for Swiss adolescents (MC-Alcohol), was tailored for use in the United States (MC-Teen). As interventions targeting youths can be cumbersome for schools to implement, the current study examined the feasibility of using the application without continuous support from research or academic staff, as well as the ease of using the app and the enjoyability and relevance of the adapted features. Twenty-nine youth aged 16-18 were randomly assigned to complete either the 12-week MC-Teen intervention or an attention control intervention (MC-fit). In the MC-Teen arm, participants downloaded the app and completed a baseline survey that included demographic information, alcohol time/place preference, and the AUDIT-C. Once the baseline survey was complete participants picked an avatar to serve as their digital coach. The avatars delivered 2-4 personalized messages or questions a week. Messages occurred around participants’ preferred drinking time and contained information, videos, and resources specific to their level of risk based on the AUDIT-C. All users downloaded and completed the survey quickly (7min 42s (SD=135s)) and >90% of all messages were received and acknowledged by participants. Biweekly survey results showed that participants enjoyed the content of the messages and found them helpful and insightful. The app was easy to use, with both UX and UI rated favorably. While most of the feedback was positive, participants suggested more diversity in the avatars, more frequent messages, bidirectional conversation capability, increased personalization, and the inclusion of an FAQ resource. Future modifications to MC-Teen may also include gamification to increase engagement.