This project proposes a redesign for the self-sampling test for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), guided by principles of Design for Emotion. The goal is to uncover the nuanced emotional experiences users encounter during the sampling process and translate these insights into a more user-friendly and supportive design. Through techniques such as micro-emotion scans (MES) and the identification of motivational dilemmas, the research offers a detailed understanding of users’ emotional experiences during key stages of the process. These findings inform a redesign that promotes emotional ease, addresses motivational conflicts, and empowers users to trust their ability to carry out the test correctly.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as CT and NG remain a significant public health concern, particularly among sexually active young adults. To promote early detection and treatment, the GGD Amsterdam provides a home-based self-sampling test, enabling users to collect their own samples in the privacy of their homes instead of a general practitioner’s office or a GGD location.
While self-sampling offers greater discretion and accessibility, it can also evoke negative emotional responses, such as doubt, insecurity, or anxiety, that may undermine users’ confidence in performing the test correctly and influence their interpretation of the results.

Extensive literature, desk and field research is conducted to get a better understanding of the usability and user experience when self-sampling. Findings point out that doubt and insecurity often stem from a lack of medical knowledge, the intimate nature of the procedure, and the absence of direct professional guidance. It is therefore not surprising that many users question their own ability to carry out the sampling correctly or worry about compromising the reliability of the results. Acknowledging and understanding these emotions is important. Examining them more closely offered valuable insights for improving the overall user experience and building greater confidence in the test through thoughtful design.

The proposed redesign (the Stepwise kit) was evaluated through user testing, a micro-emotion scan, and qualitative interviews. Results suggest the kit positively impacts users’ self-efficacy, with participants reporting increased confidence in their sampling. This was mostly due to the step-by-step guidance, progress tracking, and focused information delivery. However, the evaluation also revealed a tension between minimizing cognitive load and the need for users to anticipate upcoming steps in a motive dilemma. These insights informed a set of recommendations for further development, emphasizing the importance of consistent usability
for creating a design that supports the user’s self-efficacy beliefs.