Human-Social Robot Interaction in the Light of ToM and Metacognitive Functions

Theory of Mind (ToM) and Metacognition constitute two superior mental mechanisms that promote the smooth integration and adaptation of the individual in society. In particular, the ability to read minds introduces the individual into the social world, contributing to understanding oneself and others. Metacognition focuses on individual knowledge, control, regulation, and readjustment regarding the cognitive mechanism and its influence on cognitive performance and the mental and social development of the individual. At the basis of the development of the two mechanisms is the activation of social interaction, which determines their levels of development. The innovative approaches and great expectations of technology and Artificial Intelligence for improving the artificial mind brought social robots to the fore. Robots with social action are gradually entering human life. Their interaction with the human factor is anticipated to become more and more frequent, expanded, and specialized. Hence, the investigation of equipping artificial systems with integrated social-cognitive and metacognitive capabilities was necessary, constituting the subject of study of the current narrative review. Research findings show that intelligent systems with introspection, self-evaluation, and perception-understanding of emotions, intentions, and beliefs can develop safe and satisfactory communication with humans as long as their design and operation conform to the code of ethics.