Candidate: Sigurdur Oli Sigurdsson

Degree of: Doctor of Philosophy

Department: Psychology

Title:Investigating the Effects of Real-Time Visual Feedback on Computer Workstation Posture

Committee: Dr. John Austin, Chair
Dr. Alyce Dickinson
Dr. Mark Alavosius
Dr. Keith Ruckstuhl

Date: Thursday, April 20, 2006 12:00 p.m.- 2:00 p.m.
3723 Wood Hall

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a package intervention that included discrimination training, real-time visual feedback, and self-monitoring on postural behavior at a computer workstation in a simulated office environment. A total of 21 participants were screened for participation, and eight of those participated throughout the study. A non-concurrent multiple baseline design across participants was used to assess the effects of the interventions across three postural variables. Following an information-only phase, participants were exposed to the intervention for the lowest stable postural variable. For most targeted postural variables, the intervention implemented in this study led to substantial improvements in safety behavior. A reversal to information-only for two participants did not lead to decreases in safety. A statistically significant correlation (r = .79; p > .001) was observed between self-monitoring accuracy and safety levels. Furthermore, an additional analysis revealed that occurrences of self-monitoring resulted in more frequent improvements in posture in the interval following monitors than would be expected by chance alone. The possible behavioral functions responsible for these performance improvements are discussed. Future research is suggested to further examine the effectiveness of this behavioral technology to improve injury prevention efforts, and to bring about lasting changes in safety behavior.

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