Brewing Habits
Work
Academic project at TU delft, NL
Category
Research
Year
2025
Duration
1 month
Brief
Focuses on developing an understanding of human behavior, motivation, and experience by exploring how individual, social, and environmental factors influence
behavior in different themes in this course specific to one’s own personal behaviour.
Research
The report focuses on Isabel's psychological dependency on coffee to feel productive and focused during study sessions, particularly her first cup in the morning. This habit escalated during the pandemic, leading to up to twelve cups daily, driven by the perceived need for energy and focus.
PROCESS
EXPLORATION OF OPPURTUNITIES
The report brainstormed interventions using the'Design with Intent' toolkit, focusing on reducingreliance (not eliminating coffee entirely) for students.Ideas ranged from changing the environment andrestricting access to using persuasive prompts,gamification, and behavioral changes.
Isabel's motivation is heavily influenced by the Self-Determination Theory, specifically her need for competenceand autonomy. Coffee provides a temporary feeling ofcompetence, making her feel more alert and focused, but alsocreates a dependency that undermines her true autonomy. Hermood also plays a role; coffee is a "quick fixer-upper" whenfeeling low or a ritual to maintain a good mood.
Coffee consumption is deeply embedded in Isabel's socialenvironment. It started with family rituals, reinforced by aschool environment that valued productivity. Later, friends andstudy mates influenced her consumption, turning coffeebreaks into social bonding activities and making the habit partof her identity. Her behavior often mirrors those around her.
The physical environment significantly influences Isabel's habit. The easy access to coffee machines at home anduniversity, their strategic placement along her daily route, andthe low cost act as consistent triggers. The atmosphere ofproductivity in study spaces further reinforces the behavior.
Individuall Factors
Social Factors
Enviornmental Factors
BEHAVIOUR CHANGE PLAN
The chosen intervention is "habit swap cards" combined with a phone app and activating scents. These physical cards offer alternative actions (e.g.,breathing exercises, splashing cold water, herbal tea) to replace coffee. The app provides reminders and digital card access, while scents on the cardsaim to increase curiosity and engagement. The goal is to foster new routines, reduce caffeine dependence, enhance natural energy and autonomy.
