Interpersonal Dynamics, Organizational Culture, and Leadership in the Introduction of Social Robots in the Context of the Social and Solidarity Economy in Bulgaria

The integration of social robots such as NAO, Pepper, and Furhat in educational institutions presents both technological opportunity and organizational complexity. While these robots show potential in areas such as foreign language learning, mental health support, and bullying prevention, their successful implementation depends not only on technical infrastructure but on psychological climate, leadership, and organizational culture. In the Bulgarian context, shaped by hierarchical and collectivist traditions, introducing socially assistive robotics must be approached as a culturally negotiated process. This study explores how team dynamics, motivational factors, and solidarity-based leadership strategies influence the sustainable adoption of social robots in education.