Bright Patterns: Strategies Towards A More Conscious Use Of Our Phones

Abstract

This thesis examines compulsive smartphone use and specifically the influence of dark patterns on user engagement. Given the widespread use of persuasive design and the lack of research on how these mechanisms affect different user groups, it is essential to understand both commonalities and differences in their impact. In particular, comparing neurotypical and autistic users provides insights into inclusive design opportunities while revealing which manipulative features are most influential across populations. A mixed-methods approach was applied, including a survey with 145 participants, interviews, and a focus group, to compare experiences between neurotypical (NT) and autistic (ASD) users. Findings show that both groups reported similar challenges in regulating use, with only minor differences in how specific patterns were perceived. While NT users sometimes appeared more affected by socially oriented patterns and ASD users reported greater awareness of manipulative intent, the overall trend was similar: features such as notifications and infinite scrolling were consistently identified as the most impactful across both groups. These insights guided the design of a prototype intervention app, which detects scrolling and introduces reflective prompts or blocking options. A short field study demonstrated both the feasibility and limitations of this approach, highlighting the importance of light-weight, not too restrictive interventions. The work contributes to research on ethical design by showing how user diversity can inform more inclusive but also efficient solutions, and by framing interventions as a practical complement to "bright pattern" principles that prioritize user well-being.