Understanding Continuous mHealth App Usage: Integrating Innovation Resistance Theory and the Value-based Adoption Model

Mobile health(mHealth) apps have emerged as vital tools for managing personal health and wellness. However, sustaining continuous usage remains a challenge. This study investigates the factors influencing the continuous usage intention of mHealth apps among users in China, integrating the Innovation Resistance Theory and the Value-Based Adoption Model(VAM). The research model explores the impact of functional barriers(usage, value, and risk) and psychological barriers(tradition and image) on innovation resistance, as well as the effects of perceived benefits, innovation resistance, and perceived value on continued usage intention. Data were collected through an online survey of 319 Chinese mHealth app users and analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. The findings reveal that functional and psychological barriers significantly contribute to innovation resistance, while perceived benefits positively influence perceived value. Moreover, innovation resistance negatively impacts both perceived value and continued usage intention, whereas perceived value positively influences users&quot intention to continue using mHealth apps. The study provides insights into strategies for addressing barriers, enhancing perceived benefits, and promoting the continuous adoption of mHealth apps.