SILVIA SERINO, PIETRO CIPRESSO, ANDREA GAGGIOLI, FEDERICA PALLAVICINI
In recent years, there is growing interest in the use of advanced technologies for suppor- ting well-being. The aim of this study was to test the efficacy of Positive Technology, the first application for smartphone and tablet that exploits the potential of new technologies and wearable biosensors for the self-management of psychological stress. 68 users who performed guided rela- xation or biofeedback exercises for at least 120 seconds were included in the sample. The stress management exercises performed with the application were effective in reducing users’ psycholo- gical stress level. It is possible to note a significant decrease in the arousal, associated with a con- comitant increase in the hedonic valence after the stress management exercises. A decrease in heart rate values was observed, although it was not statistically significant. Although preliminary, overa- ll these data suggest that even a brief stress management exercise carried out on a mobile application might be useful to reduce psychological discomfort.