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. 2018 Jul 31;13(7):e0201581. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201581

Table 1. Social science concepts used to design the social interaction with the robot in contrast to the functional interaction.

Social science concept Description Example of the social interaction Matching part of the functional interaction
Self-disclosure Sharing personal information about oneself “Me too! Who likes it wet and cold? Nice sunshine I like the most, even though I do not get a tan.” “You have chosen summer. You have now answered four out of sixteen questions.”
Use of humor Behavior which provokes laughter and provides amusement “Oh yes, pizza is great. One time I ate a pizza as big as me.” “You prefer pizza. This worked well. Let us continue.”
Mutual knowledge Sharing knowledge and showing that you know that you share knowledge “Me too! They have many more cool shows to choose from. Nevertheless, I have the feeling that I already watched all the shows. But who does not?” “Your answer has been recorded. This was the last question.”
Content intimacy Intimate, emotional, detailed conversation “I am really looking forward to Saturday, because then it is my birthday. There will be tasty cake and hopefully many, many presents. What are your plans for Saturday?” “Which activity do you choose for Saturday? Note that the unchosen activity has to be done on Sunday.”
Continuity References to past, ongoing or future conversations “We talked about water before. I do not think either one is very great.” “Okay, this has been noted. Let us continue!”
Relational Continuity Constructional Units Behaviors before, during or after an absence to bridge the time apart “We will see each other again in a bit. I am already looking forward to carry on with you soon.” “After answering the questionnaires, we will continue with another task.”