Comparing the Stress-Reducing Effects of a Robotic Pet and a Weighted Toy

Paro is an interactive robotic companion designed to simulate the behaviour of a baby harp seal. It responds to touch, light, sound, posture and temperature, providing tactile and social interaction for stress relief.

A soft, weighted animal-shaped toy (dog) designed to provide deep pressure stimulation. Participants hold or interact with the toy for 15 minutes following a stress induction task to promote relaxation and stress reduction.