Stress Diffuser: A Biofeedback Agent for Stress Management in Children During Homework with Parent Involvement

Parent involvement in children's homework has emerged as an important component of their education. However, this involvement can generate tension between parents and children, particularly when coupled with a heavy workload, potentially exacerbating stress levels in children. Some children desire to express and share their stress with their parents. However, limited emotional regulation abilities and a lack of stress awareness often hinder effective stress management and communication by children. To address this, we designed a stress biofeedback system named Stress Diffuser, comprising a wearable biosensor with interactive embodied devices, that display the child's stress during homework sessions. The system intends to manage children's stress by enhancing awareness among both the child and the parent, and influencing their educational strategies and the way of interaction. We conducted experiments with eight families, including primary school children aged eight to eleven and their parents. The results of our quantitative and qualitative analysis indicated that all participants enhanced their stress awareness while using Stress Diffuser during homework. Most parents adjusted their supervisory strategies and interaction styles in response to their children's stress data. The study sheds light on children's needs for a designed agent to communicate their stress and regulate their emotions. Furthermore, the study explores the use of interactive biofeedback technology in homework settings with parent involvement. It reveals a favorable influence on facilitating stress management in children and on enhancing the quality of supervision and interaction between children and parents.