The use of Web-based interactive technology to promote HPV vaccine uptake among young females: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Health Behavior Research
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Vaccination Studies

Background:

• No prior studies examined web-based interactive technology's impact on female health behaviors.
• Investigated the influence of web-based interactivity on vaccination intentions among young females.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine how and under what conditions web-based interactivity influences HPV vaccination intentions in young females.
• To explore the role of information avoidance in this relationship.

Main Methods:

• Randomized controlled trial with a 2x2 between-groups design (narrative vs. data visualization; interactive vs. non-interactive information).
• 180 Chinese female undergraduate students who had not received HPV vaccination were randomly assigned to four groups.
• Assessed information avoidance behavior and vaccination intention; analyzed using a moderated mediation model.

Main Results:

• Interactivity decreased information avoidance and increased HPV vaccination intention under the narrative condition (B = -.23, SE = .10, P < .05).
• No significant difference in intention was observed between interactive and non-interactive information under the data visualization condition.
• Information avoidance mediated the relationship between interactivity and behavioral intention, moderated by presentation mode.

Conclusions:

• Young females may increase information avoidance when struggling with HPV information, especially with complex data visualizations.
• Interactive narratives are more effective than interactive statistical or graphical information in persuading young females to get vaccinated.
• Web-based interventions should consider narrative formats to enhance engagement and vaccination intentions.