Exploring Ugandan youth perspectives towards using mental health chatbots to support their mental health

Title (eng)
Exploring Ugandan youth perspectives towards using mental health chatbots to support their mental health
Author
Lucy Namakula
Advisor
Claudette Pretorius
Advisor
Catarina Delaunay
Description (eng)
Background: The mental health of young people is of great concern. Chatbots can increase access to care and provide timely treatment, especially in Uganda, which has a predominantly young population, an under-resourced and underfunded mental healthcare system, and high treatment gaps. This study aimed to explore how young Ugandans perceive using mental health chatbots to support their mental wellbeing, highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of chatbots in this demographic. Methods: Using purposive and convenience sampling methods, the study recruited nine young adult Ugandans (mean age: 24.7) who were required to use a mental health chatbot (Wysa) for two weeks. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed thematically. The data was coded using both an inductive and deductive approach. Results: Twelve major themes emerged from participant interviews and were categorized using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Under Perceived Usefulness, participants identified emotional support and expression, non-judgmental support, affordability and accessibility, practical and personalized solutions, limitations beyond early intervention, and noted preference for human connection. Perceived Ease of Use included simple language, easy interface and navigation, and challenges related to text-based interaction and Limited interaction control. Subjective Norm included the influence of credible recommendations and use driven by perceived benefits. Conclusion: Young Ugandans perceive chatbots as beneficial interventions but also highlight several barriers and limitations of the technology. The study findings contribute to designing and implementing more effective and user-aligned chatbots that meet the unique needs of young Ugandans.
Keywords (eng)
Mental HealthChatbotsArtificial IntelligenceYoung peopleUganda
Type (eng)
Master theses
Language
[eng]
Persistent identifier
https://door.donau-uni.ac.at/o:5736
Date created
2025
License
All rights reserved