Back to: N-of-1 Trials: A scientist in your back pocket

The participants in this research gave the trial high marks for usability (similar to scores for using microwave ovens!)

As far as the results of the interventions, researchers found an interesting connection between expectations and reality.

The participants who said they were “very” or “extremely confident” that their chosen activity would be helpful were more likely to remain enthusiastic about their activity regardless of their interpretation of the actual results of the study. 

Among the skeptics- those participants who were less confident that their chosen activity would make a difference- their level of enthusiasm about that activity was more closely tied to their interpretation of the final results.  In other words, the data changed their minds about the potential for these activities.

The researchers haven’t delved into the health improvements that may or not have resulted from its catalog of interventions. Instead, they’ve concluded that the results demonstrate that N-of-1 trials that help with behavior changes can attract a broad range of interest among US adults. And, among those who are not sure, can use N-of-1 trials to make better informed decisions.