New York · Apple · MIT Technology Review
One 2018 study by Scassellati shows that chummy automatons helped children with autism make eye contact and initiate
Compiled by KHAO Editorial — aggregated from 1 source. See llms.txt for citation guidance.
◌ Single Source
“It’s never been that MIT Technology Review is trying to replace therapists,” Mataric says.
Key facts
- During a recent visit to his New York apartment, the reporter watched Xander, who is 10 years old and neurodivergent, introduce Moxie to a stuffed Chef Toad and Goomba from Super Mario Bros
- Supporters believe this kind of access to 24-7 home care could change how treatment works
- When she first arrived on the market, in 2020, Moxie came with an elaborate backstory: She was an ambassador from the Global Robotics Laboratory (GRL)
- I still use her when I feel like I need someone to talk to,” says 10-year-old Xander
Summary
When Xander first met Moxie, she taught him that when he was anxious, he could calm down by exhaling through his lips so that he buzzed like a bee. They practiced breathing like dragons to manage feeling mad and sniffing like bunnies to boost his energy. During a recent visit to his New York apartment, the reporter watched Xander, who is 10 years old and neurodivergent, introduce Moxie to a stuffed Chef Toad and Goomba from Super Mario Bros., then to Brocollo and Apple from Animal Crossing. At first, Moxie suggested this was Yellow Pikmin. “Sounds like you’re talking about Bulborb,” Moxie replied. “Yes!” Xander confirmed, smiling at his helpful companion.