A Socially Assistive Robot for Outpatient Eating Disorder Waiting-List Support: A Mixed-Methods Feasibility Randomised Controlled Trial.

In 30 seconds

This mixed-methods feasibility randomised controlled trial assessed Purrble, a socially assistive robot intended to support emotion regulation, among adults waiting for outpatient eating disorder treatment. Participants were assigned to four weeks of Purrble use or waitlist-as-usual; 37 of 39 enrolled participants were retained. Depression symptoms decreased more in the Purrble group, with a significant group-by-time interaction. No significant between-group interactions were found for emotion regulation, sensory sensitivity, motivation, or anxiety. Qualitative feedback and trial participation indicated that Purrble was acceptable and feasible as a low-intensity waitlist adjunct.

Key findings

• Of 39 enrolled participants, 37 were retained: 19 in the Purrble group and 18 in the control group.
• A significant group-by-time interaction indicated greater reductions in depression symptoms with Purrble than with waitlist-as-usual.
• No significant group-by-time interactions were found for emotion regulation, sensory sensitivity, motivation, or anxiety.
• Motivation increased significantly within the Purrble group; qualitative feedback described sensory comfort, emotional connection, and barriers to use.

Why it matters

Waiting periods for outpatient eating disorder care may be a setting for low-intensity support. This feasibility trial suggests a socially assistive robot can be acceptable during that interval and provides preliminary evidence of a depression benefit. The findings also identify practical experiences and barriers relevant to evaluating such adjuncts in a larger, adequately powered study.

What to keep in mind

This was a feasibility trial with 37 retained participants and four weeks of intervention; the abstract reports no significant between-group interactions for most measured outcomes.