A transformational product to improve self-control strength: the chocolate machine

Authors:
Flavius Kehr;Marc Hassenzahl;Matthias Laschke;Sarah Diefenbach
Affiliations:
University of Koblenz-Landau, Landau, Germany;Folkwang University of Arts, Essen, Germany;Folkwang University of the Arts, Essen, Germany;Folkwang University of Arts, Essen, Germany
Venue:
Proceedings of the SIGCHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems
Year:
2012

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Abstract

Lack of self-control is at the heart of many undesirable behaviors, such as overeating, overspending, and even overworking. While the field of Persuasive Technologies searches for ways to change attitudes and behaviors, it often neglects the science of self-control. We present the Chocolate Machine, an exploratory interactive product to train self-control strength based upon Ego Depletion theory. A field study showed the machine to increase perceived self-control over time, while providing a sustained positive experience. This makes the machine transformational, aiming at facilitating behaviors people find worthwhile, but hard to implement.