Everything you need to know about QuitStake's science-backed approach
QuitStake is based on extensive research from Stanford University, the National Bureau of Economic Research, and peer-reviewed studies showing that financial commitment devices are 2-3x more effective than willpower alone.
QuitStake's approach is grounded in rigorous scientific research from leading institutions. Below are key studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of financial commitment devices and the benefits of reducing social media use.
Commitment Devices and Behavior Change
Research from Stanford University and behavioral economics experts demonstrates that commitment devices—where individuals voluntarily restrict their future choices—significantly improve success rates for difficult behavior changes. Studies show that people who use financial commitment devices are 2-3 times more likely to achieve their goals compared to those relying on willpower alone.
View NBER Working Paper on Commitment DevicesFinancial Incentives for Health Behavior Change
The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) has extensively documented how financial incentives and commitment contracts help people achieve difficult behavior change goals. Their research shows that monetary stakes create powerful psychological motivation that significantly outperforms traditional willpower-based approaches.
Read NBER Research on Financial IncentivesThe Welfare Effects of Social Media (Stanford/MIT Study)
A landmark randomized controlled trial conducted by researchers at Stanford and MIT found that deactivating Facebook for four weeks led to significant improvements in subjective well-being, including reduced depression and anxiety. Participants also reported increased life satisfaction and more time spent on offline activities.
Read Full Study in American Economic ReviewSocial Media Use and Mental Health: A Review
Multiple peer-reviewed studies have established strong correlations between excessive social media use and increased rates of anxiety, depression, and poor sleep quality. Research published in leading psychology journals demonstrates that reducing social media consumption leads to measurable improvements in mental health outcomes within just a few weeks.
View Research on PubMed CentralMeta-Analysis of Digital Detox Interventions
A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2024 examined multiple studies on digital detox interventions. The analysis found that structured breaks from social media and digital devices significantly reduce depressive symptoms, improve sleep quality, and enhance overall psychological well-being. The effects were most pronounced when interventions lasted 3-5 weeks or longer.
Read Meta-Analysis in Computers in Human BehaviorTime Well Spent: The Benefits of Digital Disconnection
Research on digital wellness interventions shows that even short-term breaks from social media lead to increased productivity, better focus, improved relationships, and greater life satisfaction. Studies indicate that the benefits compound over time, with participants reporting sustained improvements even after returning to moderate social media use.
View Study in Social Media + SocietyQuitStake combines the proven effectiveness of financial commitment devices (behavioral economics) with the documented mental health benefits of reducing social media use. By integrating these evidence-based approaches, we provide a comprehensive solution that addresses both the motivation challenge (through financial stakes) and the well-being benefits (through digital detox).
Our platform is designed based on these research findings to maximize your chances of success. The combination of financial accountability, automated app blocking, and structured schedules creates an environment where lasting behavior change becomes achievable.
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our support team is here to help!
If you believe you were incorrectly charged a penalty, or if you had a legitimate reason to unblock (such as work requirements or emergencies), you can dispute the penalty through our fair and transparent process.
To dispute a penalty: Email us at help@quitstake.com with your explanation and any supporting evidence. We review each case individually and fairly, typically responding within 24-48 hours. Our dispute resolution team understands that legitimate work use, emergency communications, and technical issues are valid grounds for dispute.
Legal Notice: QuitStake is operated by Asteya Tech LLC, headquartered at 8605 Santa Monica Blvd PMB 368647, West Hollywood, California 90069-4109 US. By using our service, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. All financial commitments are binding and processed securely through Stripe. For support, contact us at help@quitstake.com.
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