취약계층의 디지털 바이오마커와 개인 행복의 관계

Relationship between the Digital Biomarkers and Personal Happiness of the Disadvantaged

Background/Objectives: As part of a larger study on predicting the mental health status of the disadvantaged using digital biomarkers, this study investigated the relationship of digital biomarkers (e.g., amount of physical activity, smartphone overuse, and sleeping time collected via smartphones) with the personal happiness of the disadvantaged. Furthermore, it suggests application points for housing welfare field practice. Methods: Using the Dr FoRest smartphone application, this study collected data on five types of digital biomarker (i.e., GPS, GYRO, DATA, TOUCH, and SLEEP) from 192 participants recruited from two public permanent apartment complexes in November 2022. In addition, it conducted a questionnaire survey, including the Happiness Scale and sociodemographic information. We analyzed the relationship between digital biomarkers and personal happiness using a series of statistical analyses, including bivariate correlation and multiple regression analyses. Results: The major findings are as follows. First, digital biomarkers can predict happiness with relatively high explanatory power. Second, the study observed a tendency in which happiness increased with the increase in walking and sufficient sleep and the decrease in smartphone use. Third, the majority of the sociodemographic characteristics (e.g., gender, receipt type, disability status, degree of disability, and household size), except for age group, were not significantly associated with personal happiness. Conclusion/Implications: First, a system that can extend the use of digital biomarkers needs to be established. Second, investing in and expanding programs or facilities that can naturally increase physical activity and reduce smartphone use are necessary measures for enhancing personal happiness. Finally, improving quality of sleep through efforts to mediate or solve this issue by providing customized counseling programs or mediating relationships with neighbors are favorable interventions given the influence of sleep conditions on personal happiness.