Experts are now warning that robots could potentially be used to as tools to bully children in the future.
With robotics and artificial intelligence seeing huge developments in recent years, educational psychologists are now warning of the threat they may pose to young internet users.
“We are concerned about this – the reality that the bullies could be a mixture of both children and robotic/AI devices,” Dr Conor McGuckin of Trinity College Dublin told The Independent.
Dr McGuckin is now advising parents to prepare for a time when robotics will be 'the norm', in his new book, Bullying and Cyber-bullying: Prevalence, Psychological Impacts and Intervention Strategies.
The book aims to educate and support children and parents, so they can enjoy the internet safely without fear of being targeted.
"Emotionally, they really struggle to keep up with the new developments, whether it's apps, sexting or radicalisation, among other issues. We are very concerned about the mental health and well-being of these youngsters."
