Development of a peer-led web-based intervention to promote safe usage of dating applications among young adults

Abstract

Background: Smartphone-based dating applications (apps) are rapidly transforming the ways in which people seek potential sexual and romantic partners. Apps may increase the risk of condomless sex and harassment. Current research on and intervention for safer dating app use remains insufficient. Objective: To develop a crowdsourced, peer-led intervention for safer dating app use using a systematic and theory-driven approach. Methods: The intervention mapping (IM) protocol was used as a protocol to integrated with other approaches including crowdsourcing and focus group discussions in the development of this app. Focus group discussions were held to assess the actual situations and experience of dating app usage. A crowdsourcing contest then solicited ideas for behavioural outcomes and performance objectives. These objectives were grouped and practical strategies were identified based on persuasion communication model and social cognitive theory. A one-day intensive workshop was subsequently held with peer mentors who brainstormed ideas for the production of creative intervention materials. The intervention programs were produced and tested in a pilot study consisting of questionnaires and semi-structured focus group discussions. It effectiveness will be evaluated in a cluster randomized controlled trial. Results: The intervention program is comprised of a first-person simulation game, four short videos, and a risk assessment tool. The short videos each lasted 2-4 minutes with points of discussion aim to address the risks and benefits of using dating applications and encourage the viewers to reflect on their perception of using dating applications interacted in real life scenarios, while the scenario game is a first-person simulation game where the players are presented with choices when faced with different scenarios. The risk assessment tool, comprised of 14 questions, will give the participant a score to infer on their level of risk of adverse events when using dating apps. Potential challenges include data management and analysis, sustaining peer mentors’ interests and participation, and balancing between providing more information and perpetuating social stigma around dating app users. Conclusion: The combination of intervention mapping and crowsourcing offers a useful, evidence- and theory-based, and community-oriented model for developing an intervention for safer dating app use. It is also suitable to tackle new public health issues that have not been thoroughly researched in existing literature.