Bonnie Brinton

Papers

Total Citations

191

H-Index

About

Bonnie Brinton is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of robotics and clinical therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Her work focuses on defining how robots can be effectively integrated into therapeutic settings, with a particular emphasis on designing user interfaces and therapy models that support meaningful human-robot interaction. Brinton’s major contribution lies in establishing the concept of “low-dose robotics,” arguing that even limited, carefully structured robot engagement can foster social interaction—not just between child and robot, but critically, between child and human therapists. Her most-cited paper, “Detailed requirements for robots in autism therapy” (2010, 106 citations), provides essential design guidelines for creating robots that assist clinical teams. This foundational work, along with her studies on incorporating robots into therapy teams (55 citations) and the case for low-dose robotics (30 citations), has shaped a pragmatic, evidence-based approach to assistive technology in autism care. Brinton’s research bridges engineering and behavioral science, offering a roadmap for developing robots that are not merely engaging, but clinically useful.