Khaberni - A recent study has shown that fitness trackers and smartwatches, despite their popularity, can cause negative feelings among users.
The study confirmed that many individuals feel embarrassed or frustrated when they are unable to achieve the goals set by these devices.
Researchers from "College London" and "Loughborough University" used artificial intelligence to analyze thousands of posts on the platform "X".
They found that 13,799 posts contained negative emotions associated with the use of these devices, including anxiety, psychological stress, and feelings of failure.
Challenging Goals
Most fitness trackers and smartwatches set fixed goals based on the user's weight and activity level, but these goals do not reflect the complex reality of daily life.
For example, a user who wants to reach their ideal weight may be asked to consume only 700 calories per day, reflecting the immense psychological pressure this can place on users.
Experts pointed out that this approach often leads to a decline in motivation, as individuals feel helpless when they fail to achieve these stringent goals, which can negatively affect their mental and emotional health.
A More Holistic Approach
Researchers have called for a necessary shift in how fitness trackers and smartwatches operate from focusing narrowly on calorie counts and physical exercises to a more holistic approach.
These devices should focus on overall health and wellbeing, enhancing internal motivation and psychological support for users.
Blame and shame do not help users improve their performance but can lead to decreased motivation and threaten mental health.
Improving Research
Although these devices and apps may provide tangible benefits to some users, the study highlights the importance of conducting further research to assess their psychological impacts on a broader scale.
The study recommended that app developers design flexible and personalized goals for each user, providing supportive encouragement to promote a more positive health experience.
In the end, smartwatches and fitness tracker devices remain useful tools, but they are not a substitute for self-awareness and balanced health practices. Psychological safety and internal motivation remain key factors in ensuring desired outcomes without negatively impacting mental health.
