Robot Enhanced Therapy for Children with Autism Disorders: Measuring Ethical Acceptability

Date
2016-06-07
Authors
Peca, Andreea
Coeckelbergh, Mark
Simut, Ramona
Costescu, Cristina
Pintea, Sebastian
David, Daniel
Vanderborght, Bram
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
ISSN
0278-0097
Volume Title
Publisher
IEEE
Peer reviewed
Yes
Abstract
Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction, as well as restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities [1]. The prevalence of autism is estimated at 1-2 per 1000, and close to 6 per 1000 for ASD [23]. ASD is a lifelong disorder, and many individuals need high levels of support throughout their lives [28]. Even though no cure has been found, early intervention is critical for a positive long-term outcome. The interventions that have received the most empirical support are early behavioral interventions. They usually involve one-on-one training provided by a therapist, in which children are trained to respond to environmental changes, understand and use language, and interact appropriately with others in social settings [8].
Description
Keywords
Robot assisted therapy, Robot enhanced therapy, Ethics, Philosophy of Technology, Autism, ASD, Ethics of robotics
Citation
Peca, A., Coeckelbergh, M., Simut, R., Costescu, C., Pintea, S,. David, D. and Vanderborght, B. (2016) Robot Enhanced Therapy for Children with Autism Disorders: Measuring Ethical Acceptability. IEEE Technology and Society Magazine, 35 (2), pp. 54-66
Research Institute
Centre for Computing and Social Responsibility (CCSR)