Akshara Motani
Papers
1
Total Citations
12
H-Index
1
About
Akshara Motani is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of human-computer interaction, behavioral robotics, and persuasive technology. Her work fundamentally reimagines how everyday objects can subtly influence human behavior without conscious user effort. Motani introduced the groundbreaking concept of **non-volitional behavior change**, a novel category of intervention that operates below the threshold of deliberate decision-making. Her most-cited paper, "The Haunted Desk: Exploring Non-Volitional Behavior Change with Everyday Robotics" (2021, 12 citations), demonstrates this principle by transforming a standard sit-stand desk into an autonomous agent that gently encourages healthier posture habits. Rather than relying on user compliance or reminders, the desk itself initiates micro-movements, effectively "haunting" the workspace to promote well-being. This work challenges traditional behavior change models and opens new avenues for designing robotic systems that integrate seamlessly into daily life. Motani’s contributions are particularly notable for bridging robotics with behavioral science, offering a subtle yet powerful alternative to overt interventions. Her research continues to inspire explorations into how autonomous systems can support human flourishing through quiet, persistent influence.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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