The goal of this clinical trial is to test the usability, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a digital dietary self-monitoring (dDSM) log that uses positive reinforcement strategies (caregiver praise and gamification) to improve child engagement in DSM. The main aims are to: * Examine the usability of a dDSM log that uses positive reinforcement (praise and gamification) among children 8-12 years and their adult caregivers. * Examine the acceptability of a dDSM log that uses positive reinforcement (praise and gamification) among children 8-12 years and their adult caregivers * Conduct a proof-of-concept trial that examines the effects of positive reinforcement on child DSM behaviors. * Explore differences in children's intrinsic motivation. Participating children will be instructed to self-monitor their daily intake of targeted food groups (fruits, vegetables, sweet and salty snack foods, and sugar-sweetened beverages) for 4 weeks using a personal web-based DSM log. Each child-caregiver dyad will be randomly assigned to 1 of 4 conditions: BASIC, PRAISE, GAME, or PRAISE+GAME. For PRAISE and PRAISE+GAME conditions, caregivers will be instructed to provide daily process praise to their child related to DSM behaviors. For GAME and PRAISE+GAME conditions, logs will integrate three game mechanics: points, levels, and a virtual pet. Points will be accumulated for engaging in DSM behaviors, and accrual of points will evolve a virtual pet over time.
Nutrition, Healthy
The goal of this clinical trial is to test the usability, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a digital dietary self-monitoring (dDSM) log that uses positive reinforcement strategies (caregiver praise and gamification) to improve child engagement in DSM. The main aims are to: * Examine the usability of a dDSM log that uses positive reinforcement (praise and gamification) among children 8-12 years and their adult caregivers. * Examine the acceptability of a dDSM log that uses positive reinforcement (praise and gamification) among children 8-12 years and their adult caregivers * Conduct a proof-of-concept trial that examines the effects of positive reinforcement on child DSM behaviors. * Explore differences in children's intrinsic motivation. Participating children will be instructed to self-monitor their daily intake of targeted food groups (fruits, vegetables, sweet and salty snack foods, and sugar-sweetened beverages) for 4 weeks using a personal web-based DSM log. Each child-caregiver dyad will be randomly assigned to 1 of 4 conditions: BASIC, PRAISE, GAME, or PRAISE+GAME. For PRAISE and PRAISE+GAME conditions, caregivers will be instructed to provide daily process praise to their child related to DSM behaviors. For GAME and PRAISE+GAME conditions, logs will integrate three game mechanics: points, levels, and a virtual pet. Points will be accumulated for engaging in DSM behaviors, and accrual of points will evolve a virtual pet over time.
Enhancing Child Dietary Self-monitoring
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University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States, 37996
Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.
For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.
8 Years to 100 Years
ALL
Yes
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville,
2025-05