BAO-ME : design of a huggable device to improve mental well-being through haptic interactions
Year: 2018
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Affective touch is an essential instrument in interpersonal communication, human development and emotional support.The experience of positive bodily contact plays a vital role in humans' psychological health.The sensation of being touched through physical embrace makes humans feel safe, more relaxed and less lonely.However, in the modern world, due to the nature of fast-paced daily life, there is an increasing absence of genuine haptic response between individuals.Moreover, the importance of touch has received little research attention and is difficult to objectively study.This research presents BAO-ME, a zoomorphic robot that is designed to help decrease stress levels and enhance feelings of support and companionship by recreating the sensation of being hugged through haptic interaction.This paper examines the ways in which humans who encounter BAO-ME, experience and interact with the device and how their conclusions compare to their preconceived expectations.Presented, is a user study in which volunteer participants were required to interact with BAO-ME and complete a total of six questionnaires in order to collect both quantitative and qualitative data.The results from the latter findings will provide insight in to all aspects of the user experience, thus assisting in redefining the future design of haptic robot pets and the benefits they contribute in human emotional well-being.
Authors: Valeria Levantino, 一徳 杉浦
Language: English
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W3177801674