Understanding the "Why": Investigating the Design of Privacy Support Tools (PSTs) through the Lens of Psychological Needs
Sara Hahn (Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences
Technical University of Darmstadt
ATHENE - National Research Center of Applied Cybersecurity)
Verena Zimmermann (ETH Zurich)
Simon Althaus (Technical University of Darmstadt
ATHENE - National Research Center of Applied Cybersecurity)
Andreas Heinemann (Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences
ATHENE - National Research Center of Applied Cybersecurity)
Ephraim Zimmer (Technical University of Darmstadt
ATHENE - National Research Center of Applied Cybersecurity)
Alina St\"over (Technical University of Darmstadt
ATHENE - National Research Center of Applied Cybersecurity)
Nina Gerber (Technical University of Darmstadt
ATHENE - National Research Center of Applied Cybersecurity)
Oct 2026
Human-computer Interaction
Abstract
Privacy Support Tools (PSTs) help users control their digital data, but face low adoption due to resignation and overwhelm. While current regulations aim to enhance privacy control, users still struggle to manage their privacy. To address this, we explore how PSTs can be designed for long-term adoption by applying the theoretical lens of psychological needs, as their fulfillment motivates users to use a digital product. We conducted in-depth interviews with 15 users and identified Security, Autonomy, and Competence as key psychological needs. From our results, we derive implications and recommendations for the need-sensitive design of PSTs.
