Development of a Snuggling Robot That Relieves Human Anxiety

Abstract

Interacting with animals can relieve human anxiety and stress. In this research, we particularly look at the “snuggling behaviors” (ex. cats rub their body against a wall) of such animals. We will implement snuggling behaviors inspired by cats into a robot and investigate if such behaviors are effective in reducing human anxiety. In this paper, we will report our initial attempt and early results.