Conclusion and further directions
depression
IMI
The Persuasive Design optimized StudiCare procrastination iCBT is effective in reducing academic procrastination in college students and correlated symptoms such as depression. Guidance by a digital coach is not inferior to human guidance. These results indicate that an IMI guided by a digital coach is a low-threshold treatment alternative for students affected by procrastination. The analysis of the follow-up data will show whether this effect lasts in the long-term. This study contributes to the growing evidence of the automation of iCBT. Digital guidance further facilitates the scalability and implementation of such interventions and produces less costs for guidance.