Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Natalia Reich is a social psychologist whose research sits at the fascinating intersection of human-robot interaction, loneliness, and social cognition. Her most influential work explores why and how people attribute human-like qualities to non-human entities — a phenomenon known as psychological anthropomorphism. Her landmark 2013 study, "Loneliness Makes the Heart Grow Fonder (of Robots)," which has garnered nearly 100 citations, demonstrated that unmet social needs drive individuals to humanize robots and other non-human entities as a compensatory strategy, offering significant implications for mental health, social isolation, and the design of companion technologies. Reich has also made notable contributions to understanding public attitudes toward domestic service robots, revealing how personality traits, personal interests, and demographic factors shape people's openness to robotic companions in everyday life. With a combined citation count exceeding 180 across her key publications, her work has meaningfully influenced both academic discourse and practical considerations in robotics development. Researchers in human-computer interaction, social psychology, and gerontology will find her insights especially relevant as societies grapple with aging populations and increasing integration of robots into daily life.