Developing a Mobile App to Help Hispanic Teens Avoid Risky Behaviors
Author Information
Author(s): Estrada Yannine, Lozano Alyssa, Lovan Padideh, Boga Devina J., Martinuzzi Lara, Chavez Jennifer, Tapia Maria I., Prado Guillermo, Behar-Zusman Victoria, Blake Holly, Tchounwou Paul B.
Primary Institution: University of Miami
Hypothesis
Can a user-centered mobile application effectively prevent drug use and sexual risk behaviors among Hispanic adolescents?
Conclusion
The study successfully developed a mobile app prototype that addresses health risk behaviors among Hispanic youth by incorporating user feedback.
Supporting Evidence
- The app prototype was developed based on feedback from focus groups with 66 participants.
- Participants expressed a need for content on sexual health, drug use, mental health, and effective communication.
- 80% of youth found the app prototype useful and 73% felt it would appeal to users.
Takeaway
Researchers created a mobile app to help Hispanic teens make better choices about drugs and sex, using ideas from both teens and their parents.
Methodology
The study used focus groups with Hispanic adolescents and parents to gather feedback for developing the app prototype.
Limitations
The study's participants were from one geographic area, limiting generalizability, and some focus groups were conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 46 adolescents and 20 parents, all of Hispanic origin from Miami-Dade County, FL.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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