Commitment devices in online behavior change support systems

Abstract

Commitment devices-a self-imposed contract that helps an individual stick to a plan of action-have been widely used to make a positive influence on one's behavior change. We analyze commitment contract posts in StickK.com, an online behavior change support system to characterize the types of target behaviors and the effectiveness of different commitment devices for behavioral changes. We provide several practical implications for designing behavior change support systems that could inform further directions for research in behavioral economics and psychology.