MOOD - Designing for Conscious Social Media Use Among Adolescents
J. van de Sande (TU Delft - Industrial Design Engineering)
G. Huisman – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Perceptual Intelligence)
Mathieu Giesen – Mentor
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Abstract
This graduation project explores how design can support adolescents (11–14 years old) in using their social media more consciously. Social media plays a central role in the lives of young people, shaping both their physical and digital experiences. While these platforms provide opportunities for connection and self-expression, they can also negatively affect well-being when use becomes excessive. The aim of this project was therefore to explore how design can help adolescents use social media more consciously and inspire each other to do so.
The first phase of the project focused on gathering insights into adolescents’ social media use. This started with a literature review exploring adolescents’ digital lives, their social lives, the dual impact of social media, and current approaches that aim to address overuse. In addition, the topic was discussed with public during Dutch Design Week and with experts to gain real-life current perspectives on the issue.
Based on these insights, a focus for generative research was defined. Social media was approached as one of the ways adolescents spend their free time, making leisure time a central research theme. The generative research consisted of two sessions: one context-mapping session with a secondary school class to gain a broad and diverse perspective, and a diary study with two participants to gain a more detailed and realistic understanding of everyday experiences.
The collected data from both the literature review and the generative research sessions was analysed through an on-the-wall thematic analysis. This process resulted in twenty clusters, which were organised into eight key themes within the context. From these themes, four design directions were formulated that guided the following ideation phase.
During the ideation phase (, multiple ideas were generated, combined, and evaluated, resulting in five concept proposals. These concepts were reviewed with the target group, after which the concept, Any Case, was selected based on user feedback, project criteria, and personal design considerations.
The concept was further developed through a co-creation session with a secondary school class. Insights from this session informed the forming of the final concept: MOOD. The concept was developed into a working prototype and first reviewed through a pilot test. Based on these results, three improved prototypes were made and tested during a three-day user study with adolescents in their daily lives. Additionally, a brand identity for the concept was developed and also discussed with the target group.
The final concept was evaluated on both usability and its potential impact. The findings informed final design iterations and led to recommendations for further development and possible future expansions of the concept.
The report concludes with a critical reflection on the concept and a reflection on the personal learning goals and development achieved throughout the project.