The quantified-self movement and the integration of gamification strategies

: does quantifying ourselves have an impact on happiness?

Abstract

The increasing number of connected devices that quantify daily activities are expected to have an impact on individual motivation and improve daily habits, but little is known about their effect on individual happiness. This study proposes to analyse the impact of self-quantification on happiness by assuming that it will promote virtuous behaviour. A sample of 10 participants was used, divided into 3 groups: study, placebo and control groups. Happiness levels and changes in behaviour were measured for each group using the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (Hills and Argyle, 2002) and the Virtues Score (Cawley et al., 2000) respectively. The study lasted for a period of 21 days, ending with a qualitative interview for each participant. Results suggest that quantified-self through the use of a connected devices may have a positive impact on individual happiness. The effect of self-quantification on the practice of virtuous behaviour could not be confirmed. Based on study results, an extended theoretical model is proposed and business implications discussed. Study limitations and future research are also presented.

Date of Award	30 Jul 2014
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Martin Kupp (Supervisor)