Generating interactions in autistic spectrum disorders by means of a mobile robot

Autism is a complex neuro-developmental disorder characterized by qualitative alterations in social interactions and interpersonal communication and by repetitive and stereotyped behaviors. The therapy is based on a free play between an autistic child, a mobile robot and a therapist. The robot is used as a mediator between the child and the therapist to improve human to human interactions. The aim of our study presented in this paper is an analyzis of the robot-child interactions during predictable play. The child behavior is viewed as a dissipative system that aims at minimising its energy at any time. We propose a model based in Thom´s catastrophe theory to represent the changes in the child behavior. A first step in the validation of the model is made with four children. We discuss on the robustness of this approach and the quantification of the clues involved in the modelling.