Understanding Fidget Widgets: Exploring the Design Space of Embodied Self-Regulation

Abstract

We argue that embodied self-regulation---managing attention and emotion through physical activity---is an underexplored opportunity for HCI researchers and practitioners. We present research exploring the self-regulation design space through the use of Fidget Widgets---objects manipulated with the hands alongside daily deskwork. Through a novel qualitative study method we collected 132 exemplars of these behaviors and objects. We employed Tumblr, a social media site, as a formative research instrument and used a grounded theory approach to reveal patterns in physical properties and use. Submissions were markedly varied and included evocative, colorful descriptors such as "crinkly", "squishy", and "clickyclackety" revealing a sensory experience and desires far different than those typically associated with computational work. Our analysis of the submissions revealed evidence of self-regulation towards achieving calm, focus, and creativity; additionally, design opportunities in somesthetics and social context emerged. Our ongoing research has implications for HCI practitioners working in tangible computing and peripheral interaction as well as for those supporting wellbeing through interactive technology design.