Product Design for Instant Stress Relief: A Study on Fragmented Scenes for High-pressure Groups

Abstract

Increasingly severe fragmented stress problems. Through systematic analysis, this study finds that such stress has three major characteristics: high frequency, instantaneity, and contextualization. The causes mainly come from the fast-paced workplace culture, the “always online” mode of smart devices, and individuals’ procrastination coping strategies. Research shows that 92% of urban residents will spontaneously take stress-relieving actions within 3 minutes after stress occurs, presenting a behavioral pattern of “immediate relief — quick switch — minimum cost.” Based on this, this paper proposes a complete set of stress-relief product design strategies. First, achieve psychological regulation through multi-sensory feedback; second, adopt the design principles of simplicity and contextualization; and finally, develop intelligent stress-relief products with a three-level feedback system. Empirical data from the MIT Media Lab show that such products can increase the efficiency of emotional release by 40%, effectively meeting the immediate stress-relief needs of modern people in fragmented scenarios. This study provides a theoretical basis and practical guidance for the design of stress management products.