Impact of personality prototypes on app engagement and weight loss in a mobile app-based lifestyle modification support program for individuals with obesity and non-communicable diseases

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Abstract
Background: Personality traits influence behavioral changes and may impact engagement and outcomes in obesity management programs. However, their role in mobile app-based interventions for obesity remains underexplored. Understanding the relationship between personality traits and health behaviors can inform the design of personalized programs, potentially enhancing adherence and long-term success. Mobile health technologies offer scalable solutions for lifestyle modification, making this investigation particularly relevant. Methods: This study analyzed 2716 participants with a body mass index of 25.0 or higher enrolled in a six-month mobile app-based lifestyle modification program. Personality traits were assessed using the five-factor model, and participants were categorized into resilient, overcontrolled, and undercontrolled prototypes through cluster analysis. App engagement metrics, such as session frequency, usage duration, and weight input rates, were recorded. Weight loss outcomes were measured as the percentage reduction in body weight, calculated by comparing the first and last 14 days of the program. Additional variables, including daily steps, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, were evaluated to assess overall health changes. Results: The undercontrolled group exhibited the lowest engagement metrics, including fewer app sessions (2.63 times/day) and a lower weight input rate (63.06%). In contrast, the overcontrolled group achieved the highest weight loss, with a mean reduction of −3.08% compared to −2.55% in the undercontrolled group ( p = 0.015). The resilient group demonstrated the highest daily app usage duration (9.09 min/day). Across all groups, no significant differences were observed in blood pressure, daily steps, or cholesterol levels. Cluster analysis confirmed that three prototypes effectively captured behavioral and programmatic differences among participants. Conclusion: Personality prototypes significantly influence engagement and weight loss in a mobile app-based lifestyle modification support program. These findings highlight the importance of considering personality traits to enhance program design and effectiveness. Further research is required to validate these outcomes across diverse populations and examine the long-term sustainability of behavioral changes.

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