The Triple E Project is a research study being conducted by researchers at the University of Sydney and the University of Newcastle. The project is testing ways to improve adolescents’ engagement with health apps, with the aim of empowering adolescents to improve their physical and mental health.

Why is the research being done?

The Triple E Project is a research study being conducted by researchers at the University of Sydney and the University of Newcastle.

The project is testing ways to improve adolescents’ engagement with health apps, with the aim of empowering adolescents to improve their physical and mental health.

We know that most Australian teenagers are not meeting recommended guidelines for these behaviours e.g. 68% have drunk alcohol, 86% have too much screen time, 82% don’t get enough exercise, 93% don’t eat enough fruit and veg. Parents and adolescents are concerned about these behaviours and their health implications.

We also know that digital health programs work but there is a barrier to using digital health apps continuously. Young people are very active on digital media and technologically capable there is a huge opportunity to shape health programs and apps that they work and that they will actually use.

Participants will use the Health4Life app, which is a self-monitoring healthy lifestyles app. It enables you to track:

1. Physical activity
2. Diet and eating habits
3. Sleep
4. Screen time
5. Alcohol intake
6. Smoking and/or vaping

Who can participate in the research trial?

• Adolescents (aged 13-17) and their parent/s
• Live in Australia
• Have access to a smartphone
   

What you will be asked to do as part of the study?

• Read the information statement and fill out the consent form.
• You will also need a parent or guardian who is willing to participate with you. They will be asked to read an information statement and provide consent as well. They will be sent this over email after you have provided your consent.
• Once you and your parent/guardian have consented to participate in the study, you will both be asked to complete an initial online questionnaire.
• You will then gain access to an evidence-based health app called, ‘Health4Life’ for 3 months, which has been designed to help young people to eat more healthily, be more physically active, get more sleep, and reduce screen time, smoking and alcohol use.
• During these 3 months, you may also have access to up to four app engagement strategies including text message reminders, access to a health coach, extra gamification features in the app, and online parent resources.
• Following the 3 month period, you and your parent/guardian will complete a follow-up online questionnaire.
• You will be reimbursed with a $30 gift voucher for completing the initial online questionnaire and accessing the Health4Life app. You will be reimbursed with another $30 gift voucher for completing the follow-up questionnaire.
• If you wish, you may also be contacted to participate in a zoom or telephone interview about your experience in the study, for which you will also be reimbursed with a$30 gift voucher for your time.

How to participate

For more information about the study including how to participate visit the website here