If I had been provided one of these robots as a kid, I would have lost what little desire for social interaction I did possess. I predict these kids will decide that a robot friend is less trouble than a human friend. Good luck trying to take the robot away.
They cost 12 grand:http://www.robotshop.com/en/robotis-...mrsaAlA-8P8HAQThis robot requires advanced programming and is not ready to be an autonomous companion
http://viterbi.usc.edu/news/news/201...st-28-2014.htmThis week, a team of researchers from the USC Viterbi School of Engineering will share results from a pilot study on the effects of using humanoid robots to help children with autism practice imitation behavior in order to encourage their autonomy.