Russo, Stefano Paolo (2025) Socially assistive robotics: the roles of SARs in health service contexts. [Tesi di dottorato]

Documento PDF russo_stefanopaolo_37.pdf Download (1MB)

Abstract

Purpose of the study: Socially assistive robots (SARs) are designed to support and interact with individuals facing health challenges, such as the elderly, children with special needs, and patients in rehabilitation. Due to their ability to combine interactive and assistive functions, such technologies have the potential to enhance healthcare services. This study aims to develop a framework revolving around the concept of robots’ role for assessing the perception and usage intention of SARs by patients and other stakeholders in healthcare settings. Design/methodology/approach: This research adopted an abductive research approach, which is particularly effective when the researcher’s aim is to uncover new elements. Abduction focuses on generating new concepts and developing theoretical models rather than merely confirming existing theories. The researcher continuously moves “back and forth” between empirical observations, theoretical frameworks, and research activities. The research design of this study revolves around two distinct pilot studies, each involving the use of two different SARs. The first pilot investigated the effects of using the ABii robot on the socio-emotional learning processes of vulnerable children within a caring community. The second pilot explored whether the interaction and support provided by ABii and another humanoid robot (Pepper) could help shape a more positive, engaging, and comfortable hospital experience for children. Data collection methods included participant observation and interviews, and the data were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: The study identifies three key dimensions as determinants of the roles assigned to SARs by stakeholders in healthcare settings: performance expectancy, degree of ease and socio-emotional response. These dimensions serve as the foundation for developing a framework that defines eight leading perceived roles for SARs: stranger, intruder, guest, entertainer, toy, helper, friend, and ally. Originality/Value: This research offers a fresh perspective on the strand of study focused on SARs and proposes the concept of role as a key unit of analysis to investigate the perception of human actors in the healthcare context investigated, suggesting a correlation between the role assigned to the robot and the intention to use it.

Downloads

Actions (login required)

Modifica documento