Sarah Harper

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Sarah Harper is a leading researcher in human-robot interaction and digital mental health interventions, with a focus on the therapeutic applications of socially assistive robots. Her most-cited work, "PARO as a Biofeedback Medical Device for Mental Health in the COVID-19 Era" (2021, 28 citations), explores how the robotic seal PARO can serve as a biofeedback tool to mitigate pandemic-induced stress and isolation. This study highlights her broader contributions to developing non-pharmacological, technology-driven solutions for mental health crises, particularly during periods of enforced social distancing. Harper’s research bridges engineering, psychology, and clinical practice, demonstrating how robotic companions can provide measurable physiological and emotional benefits. Her work has been instrumental in advancing the use of PARO beyond elder care into acute mental health settings, earning recognition for its practical impact during global health emergencies. By integrating biofeedback mechanisms with robotic interaction, she has opened new avenues for scalable, accessible mental health support, making her a key figure in the evolving field of socially assistive robotics.