Justin Walden

Papers

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About

Justin Walden is a communication scholar whose research explores the intersection of human interaction, technology, and organizational dynamics. His key areas of focus include the social and psychological implications of emerging technologies, particularly socially assistive robots (SARs) for senior citizens, as well as public relations and employee communication. Walden’s most cited work, "Mental models of robots among senior citizens" (2015, 36 citations), is a pioneering qualitative study that investigates how older adults conceptualize and relate to robots designed to provide social, emotional, and cognitive support. By drawing on in-depth interviews, he reveals the nuanced mental models seniors hold—challenging simplistic assumptions about technology adoption and highlighting the importance of designing SARs that align with users' lived experiences and expectations. This contribution is notable for advancing human-robot interaction research within communication studies and gerontology, offering practical insights for developers and policymakers. Walden’s work demonstrates a commitment to understanding how technology shapes, and is shaped by, human relationships, making his research valuable for students and scholars interested in the social dimensions of innovation.