Technology and Health

Technology and Health: Promoting Attitude and Behavior Change examines how technology can be used to promote healthier attitudes and behavior. The book discusses technology as a tool to deliver media content. This book synthesizes theory-driven research with implications for research and practice. It covers a range of theories and technology in diverse health contexts. The book covers why and how specific technologies, such as virtual reality, augmented reality, mobile games, and social media, are effective in promoting good health. The book additionally suggests how technology should be designed, utilized, and evaluated for health interventions.

"Gratefully, this book takes several giant steps toward helping readers make sense of the communication functions of new health information technologies. . . . I hope you enjoy reading and using this important book as much as I have!"--Gary Kreps, University Distinguished Professor, Department of Communication, George Mason University "Written in an engaging and entertaining style, this edited book on health communication and technology covers a broad range of theories . . . in the context of health. If you are interested in theoretical and practical implications of new information and communication technologies on our health attitude and behavior, this book is a must read." --Kwan M. Lee, Korea Foundation Professor in CKS and New Media, Nanyang Technological University    

Jihyun Kim (Ph.D., University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee) is an Assistant Professor in the Nicholson School of Communication and Media at the University of Central Florida in the United States. Her primary research interests are focused on (a) social and psychological effects and implications of new media/communication technologies for meaningful outcomes (e.g., health, education, enjoyment) and (b) a theoretical notion of presence (particularly, social presence) in a technology-mediated environment. Hayeon Song (Ph.D., University of Southern California) is an Associate Professor in the Department of Interaction Science at Sungkyunkwan University in South Korea. She studies ways to use new media as persuasive and educational vehicle in the context of health. She is particularly interested in the psychological effects of virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and social media focusing on the theoretical concept of presence. Her most recent research focuses on the artificial agent helping seniors manage their mental health.