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

The goal of this trial is to learn whether interacting with a robotic pet (Paro) or holding a weighted sensory toy can reduce stress in healthy adults after an acute stressful experience. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does interacting with Paro or holding a weighted toy lower self-reported stress and anxiety levels? * Does interacting with Paro or holding a weighted toy lower physiological markers of stress, such as heart rate and blood pressure? Researchers will compare interaction with Paro (robotic pet), interaction with a weighted sensory toy and a control group with no intervention to see which method is most effective in reducing stress. Participants will: 1. Complete a stress induction task (Trier Social Stress Test); 2. Be randomly assigned to interact with Paro, hold a weighted toy, or sit quietly without intervention; 3. Have their heart rate and blood pressure measured; 4. Complete surveys about their stress, anxiety and mood before and after the intervention.

NCT Number	NCT06975007
Lead Sponsor	University of Auckland, New Zealand
Conditions	Stress
Enrollment	51 participants
Start Date	2025-05
Primary Completion	2025-10 (estimated)
Study Completion	2025-10 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2025-05-16