"Embryos" of human kidneys grown inside modified pig embryos
Social robots can provide emotional support and mental health services.Engineers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a social robot called Jibo. The device reads and analyzes verbal and non-verbal signals in different languages to recognize a person's mood and emotional state. The robot is being trained to provide psychological help.
Jibo can use positive psychology to help people who need emotional support. In one study, scientists showed that the robot changes its approach to patients depending on their responses. Jibo demonstrated the ability to combine both verbal and non-verbal cues, such as long pauses and hugs, to determine how participants were actually feeling.
Jibo even demonstrated empathy when he determined that subjects were showing strong emotions. If subjects refused to share, Jibo gently coaxed them by asking an additional question, such as: "Can you tell me more?" The researchers claim the robot also helps prevent depression and suicide attempts.
The developers believe that in the long term, such versatile robots could become helpers for the whole family. For example, it can be an assistant at work, remind pensioners to take their medications and a playmate for children. In addition, the robot will be able to analyze and prevent conflicts in the family.
The engineers are now working on a project to help children of Syrian refugees. The goal is to create a group of robots that can teach children English and social-emotional skills, while helping them preserve their cultural heritage and Arabic language.