As a caregiver, you may feel overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure where to turn for help. Community resources offer more than just emotional support–they’re lifelines that connect caregivers with others who truly understand their daily challenges. However, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving, only 28% of unpaid caregivers attend caregiver support groups. 

Whether you’re caring for an aging parent, a child with special needs, or a spouse with a chronic illness, local support groups can provide the assistance, guidance, and emotional support you need to navigate your caregiving journey. We’ll explore the benefits of joining a support group, the types available, how to find them, and how to make the most of these valuable resources.

Contents

Benefits of Joining a Local Caregiver Support Group

Joining a local caregiver support group can be a game-changer for many caregivers. 

Learn practical caregiving tips and strategies from experienced members

Support groups are a goldmine of practical knowledge. Caregivers who participate in support groups often improve their caregiving skills and knowledge. You’ll learn from others who have faced similar challenges and found effective solutions. 

Share experiences in a safe, judgment-free environment

One of the most valuable aspects of support groups is the opportunity to share your experiences without fear of judgment. This can be incredibly cathartic and help reduce feelings of isolation, depression and anxiety.

Access emotional support and validation from peers

Caregiving can be emotionally taxing. Support groups provide a space where you can receive empathy and understanding from people who truly get what you’re going through. One study found that caregivers who attended support groups felt emotionally supported and less burdened (Wiegelmann et al., 2021).

Discover local resources and services you might not know about

Support group members often share information about local services, programs, and resources that can make caregiving easier. This network of shared knowledge can be invaluable in finding the right help for your specific situation.

Build lasting friendships with people who understand your situation

Many caregivers form deep, lasting friendships with fellow support group members. These connections can provide ongoing support and companionship beyond the group meetings themselves.

Find respite care opportunities and backup support

Support groups can be a great place to learn about respite care options in your area or even find other caregivers willing to provide backup support when you need a break.

Types of Caregiver Support Groups Available

Not all support groups are created equal. Here are some common types you may encounter.

Condition-specific groups 

Some support groups focus on caregiving for specific conditions like kidney disease, cancer and autism, allowing members to share highly relevant experiences and information. For example, the Alzheimer’s Association offers support groups specifically for caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Age-based groups

Some groups are organized around the age of the care recipient, such as senior care or child care. This can be helpful as caregiving challenges often vary depending on whether you’re caring for an elderly parent or a child with special needs.

Relationship-based groups

These groups bring together caregivers who share similar relationships with their care recipients, such as spouse or adult children caregivers. For instance, a group for adult children caring for aging parents might address unique challenges like balancing work, family, and caregiving responsibilities.

Online vs. in-person meeting options

With the rise of digital technology, many support groups now offer online options. A 2022 study in the found that online support groups can be just as effective as in-person groups in reducing caregiver stress and improving well-being (Egan et al., 2022).

Professional-led vs. peer-led groups

Some groups are led by healthcare professionals or social workers, while others are facilitated by experienced caregivers. Both can be beneficial, depending on your preferences and needs.

Specialized groups for working caregivers

These groups focus on the unique challenges faced by those balancing caregiving with employment. They often meet outside of typical work hours and address topics like managing time off and communicating with employers.

How to Find Support Groups in Your Area

Finding the right support group might take a bit of research, but it’s worth the effort. Here are some strategies to help you locate groups in your area.

Contact local hospitals and healthcare providers

Many hospitals and healthcare systems offer support groups for caregivers. Reach out to the social work department or patient services office for information.

Search online databases and directories

Websites like the Family Caregiver Alliance offer searchable databases of support groups across the country. Simply enter your location to find options near you.

Reach out to disease-specific organizations

Organizations focused on specific conditions often provide or can direct you to relevant support groups. For example, the American Cancer Society offers a database of cancer caregiver support groups.

Check with religious institutions and community centers

Many churches, synagogues, and community centers host caregiver support groups. These can be especially helpful if you’re looking for a group that aligns with your faith or cultural background.

Ask your doctor or healthcare team for recommendations

Your healthcare provider or your loved one’s medical team may be able to recommend local support groups that are relevant to your situation.

Use social media and local community forums

Platforms like Facebook and Nextdoor can be great resources for finding local support groups. Many groups have their own pages or groups where you can connect with other members.

A study conducted in Canada by Kelly et al (2022) looked at how caregivers of children with complex care needs used a private Facebook support group. The group had 108 members, mostly women. Many members belonged to multiple support groups, using each for different purposes.

The study found three key factors that made the group successful:

1. Privacy was crucial. Because members came from a small geographic area, having a private group helped them feel emotionally safe sharing personal information.
   
2. The group’s small size (under 150 members) and shared experiences helped build trust among members.
   
3. Having active, knowledgeable moderators–including a healthcare professional and an experienced caregiver–helped keep the group engaged and reliable.

Even though most members were “lurkers” who rarely posted, they still benefited by reading others’ posts and searching for previous discussions about their concerns. The most common posts were questions, followed by information sharing and emotional support. 

Many members felt motivated to help others by sharing their own experiences and knowledge. They viewed their lived experience as valuable information they could pass on to newer caregivers. While there were concerns about possible misinformation, having active moderators and members who could fact-check posts helped maintain accuracy in the group.

Making the Most of Support Group Meetings

Once you’ve found a support group, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your experience.

What to expect at your first meeting

You may feel a little uneasy attending your first meeting, but everyone there was new at first. Typically, you’ll be welcomed by the group leader, introduced to other members, and given an overview of how the group operates.

Tips for active participation

While it’s okay to simply listen at first, active participation can enhance your experience. Share your story when you feel comfortable, ask questions, and offer support to others when you can.

Set attendance goals

Consider what you hope to gain from the group and set some personal goals. This might include learning specific caregiving skills, finding emotional support, or connecting with local resources.

Balance sharing and listening

Support groups work best when there’s a balance between sharing your own experiences and listening to others. Be mindful of giving others a chance to speak and avoid dominating the conversation.

Build connections outside the group

Many caregivers find it helpful to connect with other group members outside of meetings. This can provide additional support and friendship.

Use group resources effectively

Many support groups offer resources like educational materials, guest speakers, or workshops. Take advantage of these opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills.

Additional Support Resources for Caregivers

While support groups are invaluable, they’re not the only resource available to caregivers. Here are some additional options to consider.

Professional counseling options

Individual or family counseling can provide personalized support for dealing with the emotional challenges of caregiving. Many therapists now offer telehealth options for added convenience.

Online forums and virtual communities

Websites like Caregiver.com and AgingCare.com offer online forums where caregivers can connect, share experiences, and seek advice.

Local respite care services

A study published in BMC Palliative Care revealed that family caregivers prioritize patient care but also need support for themselves. They want to be involved in care decisions and prepared for medical procedures. They also need recognition and respite to continue their caregiving duties (Nysaeter at al., 2024). 

Respite care provides temporary relief for caregivers. Services can range from a few hours of in-home care to short-term stays at care facilities. The ARCH National Respite Network offers a locator tool to find services in your area.

Educational workshops and training

Many organizations offer workshops and training sessions for caregivers. For example, the National Alliance for Caregiving provides a variety of educational resources and webinars.

Financial assistance programs

Caregiving can be financially challenging. Programs like Medicaid waiver programs or veterans’ benefits may provide financial assistance. The National Council on Aging offers a Benefits CheckUp tool to help you find programs for which you may be eligible.

Emergency support services

It’s important to know what emergency support is available in your area. Many communities have crisis hotlines or emergency respite services for caregivers in urgent need of support.

Local caregiver support groups provide the understanding, resources, and community you need to thrive in your caregiving role. Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed–reach out to find a group that fits your schedule and community resources that meet your needs. 

These resources offer practical help, emotional support, and valuable connections that can make a world of difference in your caregiving journey. Take the first step to build your support network–your future self will thank you.

References

AgingCare.com. (2023). Caregiver Forum. Retrieved from https://www.agingcare.com/caregiver-forum

Alzheimer’s Association. (2023). Support Groups. Retrieved from https://www.alz.org/help-support/community/support-groups

American Cancer Society. (2023). ACS Patients Programs and Services. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/support-programs-and-services.html

ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center. (2023). National Respite Locator Service. Retrieved from https://archrespite.org/respitelocator

Egan, K. J., Pinto-Bruno, Á. C., Bighelli, I., Berg-Weger, M., van Straten, A., Albanese, E., & Pot, A. M. (2022). Online training and support programs designed to improve mental health and reduce burden among caregivers of people with dementia: a systematic review. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 23(2), 217-226.

FCA CareJourney. (2023). Family Caregiver Alliance. Retrieved from https://www.caregiver.org/connecting-caregivers/services-by-state/

Kelly, K. J., Doucet, S., Luke, A., Azar, R., & Montelpare, W. (2022). Exploring the Use of a Facebook-Based Support Group for Caregivers of Children and Youth With Complex Care Needs: Qualitative Descriptive Study. JMIR Pediatrics and Parenting, 5(2), e33170. doi.org/10.2196/33170

National Alliance for Caregiving. (2023). Resources. Retrieved from https://www.caregiving.org/resources/

National Council on Aging. (2023). BenefitsCheckUp. Retrieved from https://benefitscheckup.org/

Nysaeter, T.M., Olsson, C., Sandsdalen, T., Hov, R., & Larsson, M. (2024). Family caregivers’ preferences for support when caring for a family member with cancer in late palliative phase who wish to die at home – a grounded theory study. BMC Palliative Care, 23, 15. doi.org/10.1186/s12904-024-01350-5

Support Groups. (n.d.) Family Caregiver Alliance. Retrieved from https://www.caregiver.org/connecting-caregivers/support-groups/

Wiegelmann, H., Speller, S., Verhaert, L. M., Schirra-Weirich, L., & Wolf-Ostermann, K. (2021). Psychosocial interventions to support the mental health of informal caregivers of persons living with dementia–a systematic literature review. BMC Geriatrics, 21(1), 1-17.

Health and fitness tracking have become ubiquitous, with millions of people using wearable devices to monitor their physical activity, sleep patterns, and overall health. This trend is part of the broader “quantified self” movement. But while fitness trackers can be powerful tools for motivation and self-improvement for some, they can also fuel unhealthy obsessions and anxiety for others.

In this article, we’ll discuss the psychology of fitness tracking, exploring its potential to both inspire and potentially harm. We’ll look at the science behind motivation, the risks of obsessive behaviors, and how to strike a balance of data and well-being for sustainable health improvements.

Contents

The Allure of the Quantified Self

Let’s start by looking at why so many people are drawn to tracking their fitness.

What is the “quantified self” movement?

The “quantified self” movement refers to the practice of using technology to collect data about various aspects of our daily lives, including physical activity, diet, sleep, and more. The appeal of the quantified self lies in its promise of self-improvement through data (Swan, 2013).

Fitness trackers appeal to our natural desire for self-improvement and our love of measurable progress ((Zhang et al., 2023). By providing constant feedback on our steps, calories burned, and other metrics, these devices tap into the psychological principles of goal-setting and reinforcement as we see our progress (Zahrt et al., 2023).

A brief history of fitness tracking

The idea of tracking our physical activity isn’t new, but modern technology has made it easier than ever to collect and analyze data about our bodies. Here’s how the physical activity tracking technology has evolved over the last 60+ years:

• 1960s-1970s: Pedometers gain popularity
  
• 1980s-1990s: Heart rate monitors become widely available
  
• 2000s: GPS-enabled devices for runners and cyclists emerge
  
• 2010s: Wearable fitness trackers and smartwatches hit the market
  
• 2020s: Advanced health metrics (e.g., blood oxygen levels, ECG) become available in consumer devices

Why we’re drawn to data-driven self-improvement

The psychology behind our fascination with fitness tracking is multifaceted:

• Tracking gives us a sense of control over our health and fitness.
  
• Seeing progress can be highly motivating.
  
• Data provides an objective measure of our efforts.
  
• Many apps turn fitness into a game-like experience.

A study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that 83% of fitness tracker users reported that their device helped them feel more in control of their health (Brickwood et al., 2019).

Self-quantification affects people differently based on whether they have goals (Zhang et al., 2023): 

• For goal-getters, it lowers performance, but increases enjoyment and willingness to try new things. They’re less likely to choose healthy activities but more likely to keep going. 
  
• For those without goals, it improves performance and healthy choices but reduces enjoyment and desire for new experiences.

To understand how fitness tracking affects us, we need to know a bit about how habits form.

The Science of Habit Formation

Habits are automatic behaviors triggered by cues, which are different from conscious decisions (Gardner and Lally, 2018). Forming a habit involves deciding to act, starting the action, repeating it, and linking it to cues. And as habits develop, they influence future behavior.

Interestingly, behavior and habits affect each other over time (Gardner, 2015). This two-way relationship is key to understanding habits. While health behaviors can become habitual, it’s important to note that habits and behaviors aren’t the same thing (Maddux, 1997).

The basis of habit-forming behaviors

Habits are formed through a neurological process called neuroplasticity, where repeated behaviors create stronger neural pathways in the brain. This process involves:

• The basal ganglia, a region of the brain involved in habit formation (Grogran et al., 2020)
• The release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward

Fitness tracking apps tap into this neurological process by encouraging regular, repeated behaviors.

How dopamine reinforces tracking behaviors

Dopamine plays a crucial role in the reward system of our brains. When we achieve a goal or receive positive feedback from our fitness tracker, dopamine is released, creating a sense of pleasure and accomplishment. This reinforces the behavior and makes us want to repeat it.

For example, gamification elements in fitness apps can trigger dopamine release, which can lead to addictive behaviors.

Psychological principles used by fitness apps 

Fitness apps use various psychological principles to encourage engagement:

• Operant conditioning: Rewarding desired behaviors (e.g., badges for reaching goals)
  
• Variable ratio reinforcement: Teasing unpredictable rewards (like those in slot machines) to maintain interest
  
• Loss aversion: Using challenges or streaks that users don’t want to break
  
• Social proof: Showing how others are performing to motivate users

Motivational Benefits of Fitness Tracking

Jin et al (2020) identified 19 factors that drive people to use fitness tracking technology, categorized into user characteristics, device characteristics, perceived benefits/risks, and external drivers. 11 of these 19 factors align with Kalantari’s (2017) review on wearable technology adoption, including age, the love of technology, and perceived enjoyment. 

They examined 2 factors—personality traits and social influences—differently than Kalantari. For instance, Jin et al highlight agreeableness and conscientiousness as key personality traits driving fitness tech use, while Kalantari emphasized openness and neuroticism for wearable tech adoption.

For many, fitness trackers are very motivating. They help us set clear goals, provide immediate feedback on our progress, and create a sense of accountability. Some apps even incorporate social features, allowing users to compete with friends or join supportive communities. These elements can make exercise feel more like a game and less like a chore, encouraging people to stay active and engaged with their fitness goals.

Fitness apps and goal-setting theory

Goal-setting theory, developed by psychologists Edwin Locke and Gary Latham, suggests that setting specific, challenging goals leads to better performance. Fitness apps leverage this theory by:

• Encouraging users to set clear, measurable goals (e.g., 10,000 steps per day)
  
• Providing regular feedback on progress
  
• Allowing for goal adjustments based on performance

Research shows that people who use fitness trackers to set and monitor goals are more likely to increase their physical activity levels (Asimakopoulos et al., 2017).

Feedback loops influence behavior change

Feedback loops are crucial in behavior change. Fitness trackers create a continuous cycle that reinforces positive behaviors and encourages consistency:

1. Action (e.g., going for a walk)
   
2. Measurement (e.g., counting steps)
   
3. Feedback (e.g., progress towards daily goal)
   
4. Motivation for further action

While individual experiences vary, there are many success stories associated with fitness tracking. For example:

• John, a 45-year-old office worker, lost 30 pounds over six months by using a fitness tracker to monitor his daily activity and calorie intake.
  
• Sarah, a 35-year-old runner, improved her marathon time by 15 minutes after using a GPS watch to optimize her training.

These anecdotes are supported by research. Brickwood et al (2019) found that wearable activity trackers can help increase physical activity levels across various demographics.

A study in the American Journal of Health Education found that consistent use of a fitness tracker was associated with an increase in physical activity of about 2,000 steps per day (Kerner & Goodyear, 2017).

The link between social and community aspects with motivation

Many fitness apps incorporate social features that tap into our natural tendency for social comparison. These features can:

• Create a sense of accountability
  
• Provide motivation through friendly competition
  
• Offer support and encouragement from like-minded individuals

A study published in Preventive Medicine Reports found that social comparison in fitness apps can increase user engagement and physical activity levels (Zhang et al., 2015).

When Tracking Becomes Obsessive

The constant stream of data from fitness trackers can sometimes lead to unhealthy behaviors. 

Some people become overly fixated on hitting specific numbers, leading to anxiety and guilt when they fall short of their goals. This obsession can negatively impact mental health and even lead to disordered eating or exercise patterns (Simpson & Mazzeo, 2017). 

Signs of unhealthy attachment to fitness data

While fitness tracking can be beneficial, it can also lead to obsessive behaviors. Signs of an unhealthy attachment include:

• Feeling anxiety when unable to track activities
  
• Prioritizing tracking over other important aspects of life
  
• Ignoring physical signs of fatigue or injury to meet tracking goals
  
• Feeling a loss of self-worth when goals aren’t met

How tracking can lead to negative feelings

The constant monitoring of fitness data can sometimes backfire, leading to negative emotions:

• Anxiety: Worrying excessively about meeting daily goals
  
• Guilt: Feeling bad about missing a workout or not reaching a target
  
• Shame: Comparing oneself unfavorably to others or past performance

A study in Frontiers in Public Health found that some fitness tracker users experienced increased stress and feelings of guilt when they didn’t meet their goals.

A 2023 study found that participants whose fitness trackers were manipulated to show lower step counts experienced reduced self-esteem and increased blood pressure compared to those with accurate trackers (Zahrt et al., 2023). This highlights how deeply our perceptions of our activity levels can affect our mental and physical well-being.

The impact of excessive tracking on body image and self-esteem

While fitness tracking can improve body image for some, it can have the opposite effect for others:

• Constant focus on numbers may lead to an unhealthy body image
  
• Failure to meet goals can negatively impact self-esteem
  
• Comparison with others’ data can create unrealistic expectations

Research suggests that fitness tracker use can be associated with increased body image concerns and disordered eating behaviors in some individuals (Turner & Lefevre, 2017).

Orthorexia and fitness tracking

Orthorexia is an eating disorder where a person becomes obsessed with healthy eating. While not officially recognized as a clinical diagnosis, it’s gaining attention in the mental health community. Researchers like Turner & Lefevre (2017) have found a positive correlation between orthorexic behaviors and the use of health apps.

Fitness tracking can potentially contribute to orthorexic tendencies by:

1. Encouraging an excessive focus on “clean” eating
   
2. Promoting rigid adherence to specific diets or exercise routines
   
3. Fostering anxiety about food choices and physical activity

Striking a Balance: Healthy Tracking Practices

So how can we get the benefits of fitness tracking without the downsides? Here are some tips.

How to set realistic and flexible goals

To use fitness trackers in a healthy way, it’s important to maintain perspective. Here are some tips:

1. Set achievable goals based on your current fitness level.
   
2. Allow for flexibility in your targets.
   
3. Focus on progress rather than perfection.
   
4. Regularly reassess and adjust your goals.

Use a mindful approach to data interpretation

It’s crucial to interpret fitness data mindfully:

• Understand that data doesn’t define your worth.
  
• Recognize that some metrics (like calorie burn) are estimates (Simpson & Mazzeo, 2017).
  
• Consider the context of your data (e.g., stress, sleep quality).
  
• Use data as information, not judgment.

The importance of rest and recovery in fitness regimens

Rest and recovery are often overlooked but are crucial for:

• Preventing burnout and overtraining
  
• Allowing muscles to repair and grow stronger
  
• Reducing the risk of injury
  
• Maintaining mental health and motivation

Use your tracker as a tool–not a taskmaster

To maintain a healthy relationship with your fitness tracker:

1. Set device-free days or times.
   
2. Use the tracker to inform, not dictate, your choices.
   
3. Listen to your body first, then your device.
   
4. Remember that overall health is more than just numbers.

Fitness trackers are meant to enhance your health journey, not control it. If you find yourself becoming overly anxious about your stats, it might be time to step back and reassess your relationship with your device.

The Future of Fitness Technology

As we wrap up, let’s take a quick look at what’s coming next in fitness tech.

Emerging trends in health and wellness tech

Some ways we’ll continue to see fitness tech evolve include:

1. Advanced biometrics: Devices that can measure more complex health markers like blood glucose or hydration levels
   
2. Virtual and augmented reality workouts: Immersive fitness experiences
   
3. AI-powered personal coaching: More sophisticated and personalized guidance
   
4. Integration with medical records: Bridging the gap between fitness and healthcare

How AI and machine learning personalize fitness

AI and machine learning continue to revolutionize personalized fitness by:

1. Analyzing large datasets to provide tailored recommendations
   
2. Predicting injury risk based on workout patterns and biometrics
   
3. Adapting workout plans in real-time based on performance and recovery
   
4. Offering more accurate calorie and nutrient tracking through image recognition

Ethical considerations for fitness tech

As fitness technology advances, several ethical and privacy concerns arise:

1. Data security: Ensuring personal health information is protected
   
2. Informed consent: Making sure users understand how their data is used
   
3. Algorithmic bias: Addressing potential biases in AI-driven recommendations
   
4. Digital divide: Ensuring advanced health tech doesn’t make health inequalities worse

A report by the Future of Privacy Forum highlighted the need for stronger regulations and transparency in how fitness tracker data is collected, used, and shared.

Conclusion

Fitness tracking technology offers powerful tools for improving our health and wellness, but it’s essential to use these tools mindfully. 

The next time your device nudges you, pause and reflect: Is this motivation enhancing your life, or is it time to step back and reassess? 

The goal is to enhance our well-being, not become slaves to our devices. Use your tracker as a helpful guide, but always prioritize listening to your body and maintaining a balanced approach to health and fitness.

References

Asimakopoulos, S., Asimakopoulos, G., & Spillers, F. (2017). Motivation and User Engagement in Fitness Tracking: Heuristics for Mobile Healthcare Wearables. Informatics, 4(1), 5.

Bak, C. (2024). Fitness Trackers’ Ethical Use of Data. Institute for Advanced Analytics.  Retrieved from https://datacolumn.iaa.ncsu.edu/blog/2024/01/19/fitness-trackers-ethical-use-of-data/

Brickwood, K. J., Watson, G., O’Brien, J., & Williams, A. D. (2019). Consumer-Based Wearable Activity Trackers Increase Physical Activity Participation: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 7(4), e11819.

Frazier, R. S. (2023). Why Some People Shouldn’t Use Fitness Trackers, According to Experts. Outside. Retrieved from https://www.outsideonline.com/health/training-performance/why-some-people-shouldnt-use-fitness-trackers-according-to-experts/

Future of Privacy Forum. (2016). Always On: Privacy Implications of Microphone-Enabled Devices. Retrieved from https://fpf.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/FPF_Always_On_WP.pdf

Gardner, B. (2015). A review and analysis of the use of ‘habit’ in understanding, predicting and influencing health-related behaviour. Health Psychology Review, 9, 277–295. doi:10.1080/17437199.2013.876238

Gardner, B., de Bruijn, G. J., and Lally, P. (2011). A systematic review and meta-analysis of applications of the self-report habit index to nutrition and physical activity behaviours. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 42, 174–187. doi: 10.1007/s12160-011-9282-0

Grogan, J.P., Sandhu, T. R., Hu, M. T., & Manohar, S. G. (2020) Dopamine promotes instrumental motivation, but reduces reward-related vigour. eLife 9:e58321.

doi.org/10.7554/eLife.58321

Jin, D., Halvari, H., Maehle, N., & Olafsen, A. H. (2020). Self-tracking behaviour in physical activity: a systematic review of drivers and outcomes of fitness tracking. Behaviour & Information Technology, 41(2), 242–261. doi.org/10.1080/0144929X.2020.1801840

Kalantari, M. 2017. Consumers’ Adoption of Wearable Technologies: Literature Review, Synthesis, and Future Research Agenda. International Journal of Technology Marketing, 12 (3): 274–307

Kerner, C., & Goodyear, V. A. (2017). The Motivational Impact of Wearable Healthy Lifestyle Technologies: A Self-determination Perspective on Fitbits With Adolescents. American Journal of Health Education, 48(5), 287-297.

Maddux, J. E. (1997). Habit, health, and happiness. Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 19, 331–346. doi:10.1123/jsep.19.4.331

Quantified self. (2024, September 15). Wikipedia. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quantified_self

Simpson, C. C., & Mazzeo, S. E. (2017). Calorie Counting and Fitness Tracking Technology: Associations with Eating Disorder Symptomatology. Eating Behaviors, 26, 89-92.

Sullivan, A. N., & Lachman, M. E. (2017). Behavior Change with Fitness Technology in Sedentary Adults: A Review of the Evidence for Increasing Physical Activity. Frontiers in Public Health, 4, 289.

Swan, M. (2013). The Quantified Self: Fundamental Disruption in Big Data Science and Biological Discovery. Big Data, 1(2), 85-99.

Turner, P. G., & Lefevre, C. E. (2017). Instagram Use is Linked to Increased Symptoms of Orthorexia Nervosa. Eating and Weight Disorders – Studies on Anorexia, Bulimia and Obesity, 22(2), 277-284.

Zhang, J., Brackbill, D., Yang, S., & Centola, D. (2015). Efficacy and Causal Mechanism of an Online Social Media Intervention to Increase Physical Activity: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial. Preventive Medicine Reports, 2, 651-657.

Zhang, Y., Zhang, H., Xie, J., & Zhang, C. (2023). The influence of self-quantification on individual’s participation performance and behavioral decision-making in physical fitness activities. Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, 10(1), 1-11. doi.org/10.1057/s41599-023-02103-0

Zahrt, O. H., Evans, K., Murnane, E., Santoro, E., Baiocchi, M., Landay, J., Delp, S., & Crum, A. (2023). Effects of Wearable Fitness Trackers and Activity Adequacy Mindsets on Affect, Behavior, and Health: Longitudinal Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 25. doi.org/10.2196/40529