Engaging adolescents in a computer-based weight management program: avatars and virtual coaches could help.
This research focuses on the potential ability of animated avatars (a digital representation of the user) and virtual agents (a digital representation of a coach, buddy, or teacher) to deliver computer-based interventions for adolescents' chronic weight management. An exploration of the acceptance and desire of teens to interact with avatars and virtual agents for self-management and behavioral modification was undertaken.
Author(s): LeRouge, Cynthia, Dickhut, Kathryn, Lisetti, Christine, Sangameswaran, Savitha, Malasanos, Toree
DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocv078