Heba Dwikat

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About

Heba Dwikat is a researcher at the intersection of human-robot interaction and adolescent mental health, exploring how social robots can support young people during critical developmental periods. Her work addresses a pressing need for innovative social-emotional tools, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. In her highly cited co-design study, "Robots for Connection," she engaged directly with adolescents isolated at home, demonstrating how social robots can provide meaningful social interaction without infection risk—a contribution that has garnered 12 citations for its timely, participatory methodology. Dwikat further investigates the nuanced social dynamics of teen-robot interactions in school settings, revealing a key design tension between adolescents' desire for public engagement and private, personal connection. Her research is notable for centering the voices of teens in the design process, ensuring that robotic interventions are not only technologically sound but also socially and emotionally resonant. By pioneering co-design methods with this vulnerable age group, Dwikat is shaping a future where social robots can serve as accessible, empathetic companions for youth navigating loneliness and mental health challenges.