Heidi J. Schellin
Papers
2
Total Citations
28
H-Index
2
About
Heidi J. Schellin is a human-robot interaction researcher whose work explores the emotional and psychological bonds people form with social robots, particularly robotic dogs. Her most influential study, “Man’s New Best Friend? Strengthening Human-Robot Dog Bonding by Enhancing the Doglikeness of Sony’s Aibo” (22 citations), experimentally examined how framing a robot as a “puppy” versus a “robot” and adding fur affects bonding. This work provides actionable insights for designing companion robots that feel more lifelike and emotionally resonant. In related research, Schellin investigated how early task success shapes attitudes toward social robots, finding that positive early interactions significantly improve user perceptions. Her contributions sit at the intersection of robotics, psychology, and design, offering evidence-based guidance for creating robots that people genuinely connect with. By systematically testing factors like appearance and narrative framing, Schellin helps bridge the gap between engineered functionality and authentic human-robot relationships—a critical challenge as social robots move from labs into homes and care settings.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1
- 2How Early Task Success Affects Attitudes Toward Social Robots6 citations · 2020