Self-efficacy & stress in senior computer interaction

Abstract

Motivation -- To gather an understanding about the relation between system complexity, self-efficacy and stress in senior computer interaction. Research approach -- An empirical study was employed in which 30 seniors performed a number of tasks on a low and high complexity search system. Self-efficacy was manipulated by positive and negative performance feedback. Self-efficacy and perceived stress were both measured by self-reports. Findings/Design -- The results revealed that stress plays a role in senior computer interaction. Negative performance feedback increases stress and decreases self-efficacy. Furthermore, it was found that positive performance feedback significantly increases seniors' self-efficacy during computer interaction. Moreover, a significant effect was found of self-efficacy on stress. Perceived stress increased with decreasing self-efficacy. Although system complexity significantly influenced self-efficacy, no relation was found between system complexity and stress. Research limitations/Implications -- The findings can be used in the design of interaction devices for seniors. To increase self-efficacy and to decrease stress in senior computer interaction, it is advised to present seniors with positive performance feedback; negative performance feedback should rather be avoided for satisfying interaction. Originality/Value -- The research contributes to the need of designers to target senior users by creating satisfying interaction for these groups. Take away message -- To increase seniors' confidence with computers, i.e. to increase self-efficacy, it is vital to provide positive performance feedback and high accessibility. Furthermore, increasing self-efficacy reduces the stress experience of seniors during computer interaction.