Robots teach kids with autism to read emotions

NCT ID NCT02617342

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Inc. Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a robot program can help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) better understand emotions and social cues. Forty children aged 4 to 8 were split into two groups: one used the robot program for 8-14 weeks, the other received no extra help. Researchers measured changes in emotion recognition and social skills before and after the program.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Robot-mediated social skills program
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new way to help children with autism learn social and emotional skills through interactive robots.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 40 children. The robot program may not lead to lasting improvements, and results may not apply to all children with autism.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

autism spectrum disorder Social Skills

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Kennedy Krieger Institute

Baltimore, Maryland, 21211, United States

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