A Systematic Review of Usage of Electronic Ecological Momentary Assessment With Latines: Recommendations for Higher Quality Research

Abstract

Health disparities continue to negatively impact the well-being of Latines and are perpetrated due to internal and external treatment barriers. Cultural adaptations improve Latines engagement in research studies, however, are limited due to a lack of information about daily experiences and health-related challenges. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) provides a potential solution to understanding Latines daily behaviors and challenges as it reduces recall bias, collects behavioral data in real-time, provides information about maladaptive patterns, and can inform the cultural adaptation of behavioral health treatments. EMA has numerous benefits, however, there have been little to no cultural considerations for Latines. The Latine population exhibits high rates of cell-phone usage, yet it remains unclear how EMA has been used with this population specifically. This systematic review identified 26 articles with samples partially or completely consisting of Latines participants (18 years or older) who completed electronically delivered EMA prompts. Health behaviors and disparities directly targeted by these articles were summarized in addition to common EMA designs, adaptations, and challenges observed among the Latine community. Recommendations for using EMA more effectively with Latines were provided to serve as a guide for researchers who aim to produce higher quality research with this population.