Context-Aware Support for Stress Self-Management: From Theory to Practice

Abstract

In my research I investigated how new technologies, like sensors and apps, can be used to help people cope better with stress. I found that the computer can recognize whether someone works under stress by looking at facial expressions and body posture. By combining literature from several fields, I made an overview of how someone can best be supported by means of technology: The computer can make your work easier (e.g. by filtering emails, or finding relevant information), it can help you cope better with acute stress (e.g. provide you a relaxation exercise, encourage you to seek support from colleagues), or it can motivate you to recover after work (e.g. by working out, or getting enough sleep). I also put much effort into users and their needs and concerns, e.g. regarding privacy.Proefschrift