Social Robots as Reinforcement in Applied Behavior Analysis

Abstract

Within the framework of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a study at the Childen's Hospital of Eastern Ontario determines whether children on the autism spectrum are motivated by social robots as positive reinforcement during skill acquisition compared to traditional toys, candy, escapement, and affection. Using five robots and nine subjects, the study suggests that social robots are viable candidates as reinforcement in real-world ABA practice.