Professionalità e Robotica Sociale in ospedale. Uno studio di caso qualitativo presso il Centro PASCIA del Policlinico di Modena

This qualitative case study examines the perspectives of professionals involved in the use of Social Robotics (SR) with paediatric patients with autism spectrum disorder at XXX. Drawing on interviews, a speculative-scenario focus group, non-participant observations, and an autoethnographic diary, the thematic analysis presents SR as a relational support technology whose effectiveness depends on personalised care, the principle of autonomy, and the continuous presence of the professional. Participants acknowledge the clinical value of SR in reducing distress, while also highlighting its limitations when automation risks replacing human contact, thereby underscoring the need for a human-in-the-loop approach. The findings further reveal the still-latent role of educational expertise, which is crucial for communicative mediation and interactional transparency. The study shows that the responsible integration of SR requires clear ethical frameworks, interdisciplinary governance, and professional agency capable of sustaining the quality of the therapeutic alliance.