# A Robot-Assisted Approach to Small Talk Training for Adults with ASD

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2505.23508 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2505.23508/

## Key facts

- Cited by 1 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 5 of its 78 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 29 May 2025.

## Builds on (most cited first, 5 of 5)

- [Llama 2: Open Foundation and Fine-Tuned Chat Models](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2307.09288/) (2023)
- [YOLOv3: An Incremental Improvement](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1804.02767/) (2018)
- [Why robots? A survey on the roles and benefits of social robots in the therapy of children with autism](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1311.0352/) (2013)
- [Gaze Behavior During a Long-Term, In-Home, Social Robot Intervention for Children with ASD](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2501.02583/) (2025)
- [A Grounded Observer Framework for Establishing Guardrails for Foundation Models in Socially Sensitive Domains](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2412.18639/) (2024)

## Built on by (most cited first, 1 of 1)

- [Robotics-Inspired Guardrails for Foundation Models in Socially Sensitive Domains](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2605.19940/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

From dating to job interviews, making new friends or simply chatting with the cashier at checkout, engaging in small talk is a vital, everyday social skill. For adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), small talk can be particularly challenging, yet it is essential for social integration, building relationships, and accessing professional opportunities. In this study, we present our development and evaluation of an in-home autonomous robot system that allows users to practice small talk. Results from the week-long study show that adults with ASD enjoyed the training, made notable progress in initiating conversations and improving eye contact, and viewed the system as a valuable tool for enhancing their conversational skills.