Parental attitudes towards the use of humanoid robots in pediatric (re)habilitation

Abstract

Introduction. The advancement of technology in the world is more and more evident, as is its implementation in almost all spheres of life, and so is its application in medicine. The use of robotics in medicine has become increasingly important, with a wide scope of application. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine parental attitudes towards the robot-assisted therapy in pediatric (re) habilitation and to assess the degree of parental acceptance and apprehension towards humanoid robots, along with their expectations. Material and Methods. The study included 32 parents of both genders, whose children took part in the treatment using a mobile anthropomorphic robot with cognitive skills, and who completed the Frankenstein Syndrome Questionnaire. Results. The study showed that parental attitudes towards humanoid robots and robot-assisted therapy were positive. Conclusion. In our study, parents showed neutral attitudes and positive expectations of humanoid robots. They have accepted them socially, without negative feelings on the religious and psychosocial levels.