Psychological drivers of the intention to continue using health apps amongst young users

Purpose This research examines, post adoption, the key psychological mechanisms driving the intention to continue using health and fitness self-tracking apps (health apps, in short) amongst young users (e.g., Generation Z).

Design/methodology/approach It uses a mixed-method approach, combining structural equation modeling and chain mediation analyses based on survey data with thematic analysis of 21 in-depth interviews.

Findings The study finds that general goals shape healthism, or one’s orientation towards attaining good health, leading to flow experience with the health app. Flow experience then leads to continued intention to use health apps and user satisfaction. Perceptions of the behavioural change likely to occur through the technology moderate both links. The interviews further clarify how young individuals set general goals that impact healthism; how they ‘live’ the flow experience; and the outcomes of using health apps.

Research limitations/implications This research significantly advances the understanding of the continued use of health apps, highlighting how to attain user benefits from health apps.

Practical implications As such, it yields managerial and societal implications, addressing calls by different stakeholders for positive health changes amongst younger people.

Originality/value By focusing on the post-adoption stage and through the combination of multiple theoretical lenses, this research breaks down the critical drivers of the continued intention to use health apps, revealing vital prerequisites for positive outcomes for young generations.