Mixed Methods Evaluation of the Talk More, Tech Less 30-Day Family Life Education Program Promoting Psychological Well-Being at an American University

The Talk More, Tech Less program was developed to promote healthier technology habits through a 30-day series of daily activities and reflections. This pilot study examined the short-term effectiveness of this program in improving mobile media habits. In Study 1, 30 participants who had already participated in the program completed post-program surveys reporting weekly device use before and after the program, rating their regulation skills (1–7), and offering feedback. Average self-reported weekly device use dropped from 26.02 to 15.93 h (p < 0.001), and self-regulation significantly improved (p < 0.05). Study 2, conducted during the 2025 Lenten season with 39 participants (66.7% female), used pre/post assessments and weekly surveys to track device use, mental health, and family rapport. The objective smartphone use captured by screenshots showed declines of 118 min on average (p < 0.001), with reductions in anxiety, stress, and depressive symptoms, alongside gains in regulation skills and confidence. Thematic coding reliability analysis showed participants valued the daily activity cards and increased awareness of their tech habits. Preliminary findings suggest that intentional reflection on technology use can reduce screen time, improve well-being, and strengthen family connections, offering a model for future healthy technology initiatives. The lack of diversity and control group, as well as the time period in which the program was administered, are limitations that future studies can address.