Toward a Conceptual Framework to Explain the Intermittent Discontinuance in Electronic Chinese Yuan (e-CNY) Usage

This paper describes the development of a conceptual framework to explain intermittent discontinuance in electronic Chinese yuan (e-CNY) usage, a postadoption behavior characterized by alternating periods of use and temporary withdrawal. Drawing on the stress–strain-outcome (SSO) framework, the model identifies four key stressors—system feature overload, absence of incentives, insufficient usage scenarios, and user inertia—that influence two forms of psychological strain: usage fatigue and neutral satisfaction. These strain variables are proposed as the primary drivers of intermittent discontinuance. As a conceptual study, the paper does not conduct empirical testing; rather, it provides a theoretically grounded foundation for future research. In the next phase, data from experienced e-CNY users will be collected to validate and refine the proposed model using quantitative analysis. This framework advances the understanding of fluctuating central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) postadoption behaviors and offers guidance for future empirical inquiry and practical improvement of e-CNY user engagement.