No. #93

Restraint Bias
- Overestimating Self-control

Restraint bias is the overestimation of one's ability to control impulsive behavior, which can affect the design of products intended to help users manage their habits or behaviors, such as fitness trackers or productivity apps.

Read more on Wikipedia

Product example

Assuming users will have the self-discipline to follow through with a productivity app’s regimen might lead to designing features that are too demanding or optimistic.

Empathy tips

1

Supportive Design

Design features that provide incremental support and reminders for users.

2

User Empowerment

Empower users with tools that help them realistically manage their habits.

3

Customizable Goals

Allow for customizable goals that accommodate different levels of user self-control.

4

Feedback and Adjustment

Provide feedback mechanisms that help users adjust their goals and usage based on their actual behavior.

Need an empathic partner?

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Anna Lundqvist
UX & AI ethics expert driving better products and smarter teams.
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Eddy Salzmann
Design lead crafting seamless products and mentoring design teams.
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Ola Möller
Facilitator helping organisations see the big picture and take action.