Exploring Qualities in Smart Fidget Devices for Affective Regulation Support

Abstract: Commercial non-digital fidget devices have over the last few years been popularized and used as toys, but they are also proven helpful for emotional and cognitive self-regulation. The aim of this study was to explore which qualities in smart fidget devices are most engaging for people in need of affective regulation support and how these qualities can be used to design smart fidget devices in the future. Three different design probes were developed using a research-through-design methodology, putting the artifacts in focus of the knowledge contribution. The probes were thereafter deployed in a diary study with ensuing interviews. This paper presents a series of insights into every day fidgeting, especially how smart fidget devices potentially could facilitate regulation of affectives states. The design process together with the diary study shows that smart fidget devices should afford qualities that provide distinct tactile sensations, are easy for the user to make sense of, and allows absentminded fidgeting.