The Role of Social Robots as Assistive Technologies in the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Possible Interactive Play Scenarios

Written by admin on October 17, 2023. Posted in Post.

Paulina Tsvetkova – Institute of Robotics, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Bulgaria [ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5637-1925]

Abstract
This chapter explores the utilization of social robots as assistive technologies in the treatment of children and adolescents with ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders. It has been observed that these robots provide effective and engaging experiences for such individuals and both parents and children show a positive attitude towards this technology.
In addition, parents perceive robots as more child-friendly than tablets or smartphones. That is why, the current section examines the potential of different Socially-Assistive Robots (SARs) in therapeutic sessions and presents various interactive play scenarios, designed by a team of specialists. Possible applications are explained and challenges, faced during the sessions, are pointed out. The paper also offers perspectives on the use of SARs which can create a nurturing and non-intrusive environment, leading to enhanced therapeutic results.

Keywords: Social Robots; Assistive Technologies; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Interactive Play Scenarios; Therapeutic Sessions.

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Cite as: Tsvetkova, P. (2023). The Role of Social Robots as Assistive Technologies in the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Possible Interactive Play Scenarios. In C. Sousa, & A.H. Tkaczyk (Eds.), Media Literacy and Assistive Technologies for Empowerment in Autism (pp. 78-84). Edições Universitárias Lusófonas. https://www.doi.org/10.24140/asdigital.v1.p02.02