Beyond the Body Productive: Exploring the Transformative Potential of Self-Tracking

Spence, Rachel ORCID: 0000-0003-4993-8465, Ashman, Rachel ORCID: 0000-0002-5579-6304, Patterson, Anthony and Hunter-Jones, Philippa ORCID: 0000-0002-0880-7357 (2025) Beyond the Body Productive: Exploring the Transformative Potential of Self-Tracking Sociology, 59 (3). pp. 442-465. ISSN 0038-0385, 1469-8684

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Abstract

Previous studies of self-tracking often focus on themes such as control, surveillance and the production of self-optimising neoliberal subjects. This article extends understanding by exploring the affective capacities of self-tracking in fostering wellbeing and forging meaningful relationships. Drawing upon a Deleuzian conceptual framework and the experiences of a sample of self-tracking individuals in the United Kingdom, we examine how self-tracking practices can encourage the formation of new relationships, habits and capacities that enhance wellbeing in unique and personal ways. Our analysis presents three key themes: tracking towards meaningful relationships, routinising wellbeing and self-tracking through the struggle. Crucially, our findings move beyond the ‘body productive’ exposing how the affective capacities of self-tracking emerge through dynamic interactions between users, devices and wider assemblages, rather than being solely determined by technology. In doing so, we highlight the importance of personal and relational dimensions of wellbeing as they intersect with self-tracking technologies.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	assemblage, Deleuze, self-tracking, technology, wellbeing
Divisions:	Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences > School of Management
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	05 Nov 2024 08:14
Last Modified:	28 Feb 2026 15:21
DOI:	10.1177/00380385241297681
Related Websites:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3187063
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