The use of an Embodied Conversational Agent to Improve Self-Esteem: An Initial Study

Mental health interventions using conversational agents and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are showing promising results. However, none target low self-esteem despite it being a factor shared by common mental health disorders including anxiety and depression. Moreover, studies have shown that young adults (such as those commencing university studies) are at high risk of experiencing such mental health problems. The objective of the current study was to test the initial feasibility and effectiveness of a psycho-educational program using an Embodied Conversational Agent named HAFSE (Helper Agent For Self Esteem) to use CBT principles to facilitate strengthening the self-esteem of first year undergraduate students. In this pre-post study design, results were favourable showing improvements in both trait (p = 0.040, t = 2.09) and state self-esteem (p ‹0.0001, t = 3.97) post-intervention. Self-efficacy (p = 0.66, t =0.43) was also slightly improved, but not significantly.