Designing an empathic virtual agent for mental health

This research aims to provide support for young men through AI-driven virtual humans that provide empathic responses in response to monitoring their emotional state.

What's involved?

The focus group will last 60 minutes and will be held on level 5 of the Auckland Bioengineering Institute. However, it can also be conducted on Zoom for those who cannot physically attend ABI. Participants will be involved in discussions about having an emotion-aware and always available digital companion.

Eligibility criteria

Participants must be male and between 16 and 25 years of age, and a proficient understanding of English is required, as the focus group will be conducted entirely in English.

What you will receive

$20 Westfield Gift Card

Participant information

Get involved

If you would like to know more about this study or to apply, we would love to hear from you:

Maryam Siah Doosti
Student researcher
Email: msia787@aucklanduni.ac.nz

Approved by the University of Auckland Human Participants Ethics Committee on 31/10/2025 for one year. Reference Number 29709.

Recruitment ends: 30th October 2026