What story-line dialog could require more credibility than reaching those alleged to communicate less often than others? Recent adventures in humanoid robotics and utility have explored into the direction of social skills and autistic children. Studies are showing that these children may be more interested in the robots than are average children; “surprise,” quite possibly, the children are interested in technology. What remains a bit interesting about this emerging model is how most available articles are quick to assert that humanoid robots would not take the place of a therapist. Just one question for a moment of thought: Why not?
As has been hypothesized, part of the reason for the children’s attention may be that the humanoid robot has no performance expectations. Interest in technology may also play a significant role, since “performance anxiety” is a construct favored by more typical therapeutic theory. It may then seem that keeping the therapist in the room maintains a consistent-observer presence, who by training, economics, and possibly even nature, is dependent on constant evaluations and comparisons between “what is wrong with” and “documented milestone improvements.”
One issue between roboticists and therapists is that the roboticists do not always understand today’s concept of “autism” (or even more widely defined, “the autistic spectrum”). At the same time, most therapists do not always understand robotics theory or how to fully use the robots. Possibly then, the roboticists could socialize the children who have a budding interest in technology? We may suspect that as the field of humanoid robotics evolves to the point where empathy becomes programmable, socially oriented therapists’ abilities to fully understand their clients may be need to be redefined. The same works with literary perspective-taking and considering how you will convey believable emotions to your readers.
Thanks for reading,
Jeanie
General blogging note: Blog posts are written in a personal style for our entertainment. If you are looking for a specialist, rest assured that I can help you enhance your story line’s impact and clarity for moving your content into the hearts and minds of your readers.