NCT07426328

Promoting Motivation and Linguage in Developmental Language Disorder Through Interaction With the Humanoid Social Robot

• Status: Enrolling By Invitation
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 50 (estimated)
• Sponsor: IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino Pulejo · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 4 Years – 5 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a communication disorder that interferes with learning, understanding, and using language. This pilot study investigates the use of the humanoid robot NAO as part of a rehabilitative program designed for children with DLD. NAO, with its predictable and engaging interaction style, is hypothesized to enhance communicative initiative, expressive communication, and social interaction in this population. The study employs a randomized controlled trial design, assigning participants to either a NAO-assisted intervention group or a control group receiving standard therapy. Outcomes will be assessed using standardized measures of communication, motivation, and observational data. This research aims to explore the potential of social robots as an innovative tool for addressing the unique needs of individuals with DLD, contributing to the development of effective, accessible therapeutic options that improve their quality of life and that of their families.

Detailed description

Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) is a communication disorder that interferes with learning, understanding, and using language. DLD is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by complex interactions between genes and the environment that affect brain development. The exact causes of the brain differences that lead to DLD are unknown. Like other neurodevelopmental disorders, DLD often shows familial aggregation. Children with DLD are more likely than their typically developing peers to have first-degree relatives-such as parents and siblings-who have experienced language-related difficulties or delays. In fact, it is estimated that 5-7% of the population is affected by DLD, and many children with DLD have at least one family member with the disorder. In addition, other potentially related neurodevelopmental disorders, such as dyslexia or autism, are more common among the family members of children with DLD. Early diagnosis and tailored therapeutic interventions are crucial for improving long-term outcomes in this population. However, conventional therapies often face limitations, including variability in efficacy and difficulty maintaining engagement among children with DLD. In recent years, the integration of advanced technologies into therapeutic programs has gained traction as an innovative approach to address communication challenges in neurodevelopmental disorders. Social robots, such as the humanoid robot NAO, offer unique opportunities to engage children with DLD through consistent and predictable interactions. NAO is equipped with capabilities including speech recognition, gestures, and responses to touch and movement, making it a promising tool for promoting communication and social behaviors. Preliminary studies suggest that social robots can enhance engagement and improve social skills in children, yet their potential remains underexplored in Developmental Language Disorder. This single-blind, randomized controlled study aims to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a rehabilitative treatment program integrating the NAO robot for children with DLD.

Conditions

• Development Language Disorder

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Nao assisted therapy	The sessions included tasks designed to engage children in verbal and social interactions (e.g., naming objects, responding to questions, performing gestures). The NAO robot provided consistent and predictable feedback, while therapists supported and reinforced appropriate communicative behaviors.
BEHAVIORAL	Standard therapeutic protocol	The therapy included exercises aimed at improving verbal communication and social engagement (e.g., naming objects, sentence construction, and comprehension tasks). Therapists adjusted the intervention to match each child's communication goals.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-02-01
• Primary completion: 2026-04-01
• Completion: 2026-04-01
• First posted: 2026-02-23
• Last updated: 2026-02-23

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Italy