A Multi-Faceted Examination of Social Robots Adoption: Influences of Perceived Enjoyment, Social Attraction, and Pet Experience

Abstract

This research undertakes a thorough investigation into the adoption of social robots, an emerging field of significance as these technologies become more ingrained in daily life. By focusing on critical aspects that shape social robot adoption, this study illuminates the key determinants that influence user intentions. Using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), the model was analyzed through a significant sample of potential users. The study revealed that human-like qualities such as appearance and behavior play a vital role in perceived enjoyment and social attraction. Furthermore, these factors positively affected perceived value, significantly steering adoption intention. Interestingly, privacy risk increased overall privacy concerns, yet it had no substantial effect on perceived value. Additionally, prior experience with pets was found to negatively influence the relationship between the social robot’s appearance and social attraction, providing unique insights that have valuable implications for various industry stakeholders.

Keywords

• Social robots
• adoption intention
• perceived value
• privacy risk
• pet experience