Think robots are just for sci-fi movies and high-tech industries? Think again!
A recent study has found that it's not just real dogs that can wag our worries away, but robotic dogs too.
Scientists from Jichi Medical University in Japan observed that robotic dogs could be the key to unwinding and beating stress. The researchers of the iScience project said: 'A robot may have an effect similar to that of animal therapy.'
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The study, published in the journal iScience, involved participants living with a pet-like robot for two months.
Remarkably, these robot owners showed lower levels of stress, similar to those expressed in real-life dog owners.
The robot dog used in the study resembles a small penguin, with two feet and a body temperature matching that of humans.
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Whether you find it cute or a tad creepy is for you to decide, but there's no denying its uniqueness.
Additionally, the robotic companion comes with a camera that can track the hand movements of its owner and can do so to 'ask for a hug.'
It makes eye contact and communicates in what can only be described as 'seal-like' sounds.
The dog even imitates a similar response when you stroke a dog's belly. Owners found that when they stroked the robot dog's belly, it slowly closed its eyes and made a slow breathing sound.
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Oh, and it gets more adorable. When owners stroked its belly, it reacted just like a real dog, closing its eyes and making a soothing breathing sound.
And pressing its nose caused the robot dog to wiggle and shake with excitement.
The team of researchers discovered that levels of oxytocin were 2.2 times higher in individuals who lived with the robotic dog.
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Often dubbed the 'cuddle hormone', oxytocin is associated with feelings of bonding and stress relief.
Furthermore, cortisol - a hormone associated with stress - was found to be twice as high in participants who did not have a robot. Interestingly, just 15 minutes of interaction with the robot was sufficient to reduce cortisol levels in both groups.
The study found that these features mimic the responsive nature of real pets, demonstrating its true therapeutic effect. Its unique design promotes its interactive and comforting qualities, making it more relatable and effective as a companion.
The research team suggests that social robots could offer an alternative to traditional animal-assisted therapy. This is especially good news for treating conditions like depression and alcoholism, where real pets might pose health risks.
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Now, the only question left is whether this innovative piece of technology can enjoy a game of fetch.