Human-Robot Interaction With Animal Robot Paro For Patients With Depression

Shamsuddin, Syamimi and Yussof, Hanafiah and Kamat, Seri Rahayu and Hambali, Ruzy Haryati and Lim, Thiam Hwee and Zulkifli, Muhammad Winal Zikril (2018) Human-Robot Interaction With Animal Robot Paro For Patients With Depression. Project Report. Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia. (Submitted)

Text (24 Pages) Human-Robot Interaction With Animal Robot Paro For Patients With Depression.pdf - Submitted Version Restricted to Registered users only Download (640kB)

Abstract

Depression is a serious mental health challenge.If left untreated,it could lead to other critical symptoms,even suicide.In Malaysia,the prevalence is estimated between 8-10% of the population.Treatment includes constant psychotherapy and motivation.This research is the first one in Malaysia to propose an animal robot PARO to provide mental support to patients with depression.A robotic animal can fulfil a similar role- but without the risk of bites or allergies.Robots will also reduce the need for antipsychotic drugs during therapy.The main objective of this research is to investigate the human-robot interaction (HRI) with an animal robot to treat patients with depression in a rehabilitation center.The first outcome is a model of HRI interaction model for assistive animal-robot therapy.Evaluation methods include HRI smile recognition tool and psychological tools asesment.Then,the HRI therapy model was evaluated involving patients and psychologists.Overall,the interaction between patients and animal robot showed positive responses in terms of reduced depression and anxiety simptoms.The main outcome is a therapy model based on HRI to help people with depression in Malaysia and worldwide.Recommendations will be made to rehabilitation centers to implement this procedure in depression therapy.This research is carried out in collaboration with SOCSO Tun Razak Rehabilitation Center, Melaka.

Actions (login required)

View Item