Dual verifications in mHealth apps: Supporting self-regulation or increasing friction?

Mobile health applications (mHealth apps) are widely used for supporting individuals in achieving health-related goals. While various strategies such as reminders and financial incentives have been explored, the impact of verification systems on goal achievement remains understudied, particularly in the context of mHealth apps. This study investigates the effects of a dual verification system on goal outcomes, which require users to submit proof photos before and after activities. Using a difference-in-differences (DID) with matching technique, we examine whether increased verification steps hinder users’ commitment to self-development goals. Drawing upon friction theory, our findings suggest that implementing a dual verification system negatively influences goal achievement rates due to increased friction. Moreover, we find that the effect varies based on users’ engagement patterns and deposit amounts. Our study contributes to understand the effects of verification systems on users’ goal achievement and provides practical insights for designing personalized verification strategies in mHealth apps.