The Limitations of the Quantified Self for Persuasive Self-Optimization Apps

This paper explores how the quantified self and the use of persuasive apps influence various activities, such as sports, cooking and eating, sleeping, and reading. We aim to find out how the experiencing self and remembering self differ in terms of considerations for these activities and how these differences could influence a person's expectations and experiences. We conducted a scenario-based survey, where a group of 51 participants was divided into two groups associated with both perspectives. The results show how these considerations align with those reported in the literature and those implemented in currently available persuasive apps. With this study, we provide insights in the use of current apps and for the design of future apps that are built upon the quantified self.