Isolated Circuits: Human Experience and Robot Design for the Future of Loneliness

The following dissertation considers the role of lived experiences in the technology design process. Using an interdisciplinary human-machine communication framework, it highlights lived experiences of loneliness and the present and future role they may play in the design of social companion robots. Following an interdisciplinary framework requires a critical stance on technology. This dissertation considers the systemic factors contributing to issues of access and disparities in the impact of both loneliness and technology. This work uses a mixed methodological approach of surveys, expert interviews, and interviews with individuals who have lived experiences with loneliness. The literature review examines the areas of loneliness, social companion robotics, and human-machine communication. These fields are considered by their key terms and definitions, pressing challenges, and practical applications. The operational definition of loneliness in this dissertation is an experience of a lack or loss of meaningful connection. Research questions consider the main insights at the intersection between technology, design, communication, and loneliness and the role of technology and users' experiences. Next, user needs and widespread design features are differentiated and determined. Finally, questions discuss the theme of managing user expectations and considering current technological competencies. Four hypotheses come from the literature review and open a discussion of the potential for this technology, the input of users, impacts of prior user experiences with robots, and the perceptions of robots as being suitable for others (such as the elderly or those with disabilities) but not necessarily needed for the participants themselves. Findings from the survey are combined with a phenomenological analysis to suggest that social companion robots can be a facilitating tool for mitigating negative experiences rather than replacing human connection. Emergent findings suggest that loneliness is not a ”bad thing” but rather a necessary part of the human experience that acknowledges a need, similar to hunger. Combining the fields of loneliness, social companion robots, and human-machine communication, the connections between these different fields establish a new perspective on an ancient experience.