Clinical Research Directory

Comparing the Stress-Reducing Effects of a Robotic Pet and a Weighted Toy

Sponsor: University of Auckland, New Zealand

Summary

The goal of this trial is to learn whether interacting with a robotic pet (Paro) or holding a weighted sensory toy can reduce stress in healthy adults after an acute stressful experience. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does interacting with Paro or holding a weighted toy lower self-reported stress and anxiety levels? * Does interacting with Paro or holding a weighted toy lower physiological markers of stress, such as heart rate and blood pressure? Researchers will compare interaction with Paro (robotic pet), interaction with a weighted sensory toy and a control group with no intervention to see which method is most effective in reducing stress. Participants will: 1. Complete a stress induction task (Trier Social Stress Test); 2. Be randomly assigned to interact with Paro, hold a weighted toy, or sit quietly without intervention; 3. Have their heart rate and blood pressure measured; 4. Complete surveys about their stress, anxiety and mood before and after the intervention.

Official title: Comparing the Stress-Reducing Effects of a Robotic Pet and a Weighted Toy: A Randomised Experimental Study

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