Behavioral design applies psychology principles to influence user decisions and actions. When used ethically, these patterns can help users achieve their goals while supporting business objectives.
Key Behavioral Frameworks
- BJ Fogg's Behavior Model: B = MAP (Motivation, Ability, Prompt)
- Cialdini's Principles: Reciprocity, commitment, social proof, authority, liking, scarcity
- Hook Model: Trigger → Action → Variable Reward → Investment
- EAST Framework: Easy, Attractive, Social, Timely
- Nudge Theory: Choice architecture to influence decisions
- Habit Loop: Cue → Routine → Reward → Craving
- Dual Process Theory: System 1 (fast) vs. System 2 (slow) thinking
Ethical Persuasion Patterns
- Defaults: Pre-selecting beneficial options
- Framing: Positioning choices in meaningful context
- Feedback loops: Showing progress and consequences
- Social proof: Showing relevant community behaviors
- Commitment devices: Creating future intention structures
- Friction adjustment: Reducing or adding appropriate resistance
- Goal visualization: Making outcomes more tangible
Ethical Implementation
- Align techniques with user goals and values
- Create transparency about persuasive mechanisms
- Preserve user autonomy and choice
- Avoid exploitation of vulnerabilities
- Test for unintended consequences
- Balance business goals with user well-being
- Create ethical review processes for designs
Business and User Outcomes
Ethical behavioral design can increase desired behaviors by 25-35% while maintaining or improving satisfaction and trust, creating sustainable engagement rather than short-term manipulation.
Expert Perspective
As behavioral scientist Dan Ariely explains: "The goal isn't manipulation, but rather helping people overcome the gap between their intentions and their actions—designing to help users do what they already want to do."