Beyond Robot Therapy: Embodied AI, Mental Healthcare, and Value Sensitive Design

Abstract

Our workshop envisions what we call “robotic home” and how smart home technology could be used as a tool for increasing mental health. “Robotic home” is an integrated system of smart home and robotic technologies that is proactive and interactive with the inhabitant. We focus on the possibility of such technology to be used for enhancing mental health. This could be achieved both through therapeutic functions and by assisting in the aspects of regular life that the inhabitant may have difficulties with because of their condition. Technology like this could make the very home effectively a behavioral therapist. Furthermore, we explore what kind of ethical risks are involved, and how to minimize the risks.