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Applications of artificial intelligence in emotion recognition in pediatrics health care: Scoping review
Ana Rita Figueiredo1, António Pereira1, Francisca Frias1
1Nursing Research, Innovation and Development Centre of Lisbon (CIDNUR), Nursing School of Lisbon (ESEL), 1600-190 Lisbon, Portugal.
Background:
The use of artificial intelligence in healthcare is growing rapidly. In pediatrics, artificial intelligence technologies have been applied to early diagnosis, treatment, increased precision in care, and recognition of emotions. This will provide new opportunities to overcome the difficulties that may have developed in children's ability to express emotions due to cognitive, physical, or emotional reasons.
Aim:
To review the existing literature on the application of artificial intelligence to emotion recognition in children and adolescents, and to evaluate its applicability in clinical settings.
Methods:
A scoping review was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL Ultimate, MEDLINE Ultimate, IEEE Xplore and Wiley Online Library. A total of 136 records were initially identified, and 23 studies met the inclusion criteria. Data were analyzed and summarized narratively.
Results:
The studies varied in methodology and scope, and included the use of artificial intelligence for facial, voice, and drawing-based emotion recognition, with applications in various domains. Artificial intelligence-based tools showed promising levels of accuracy, particularly in improving emotion identification, supporting early diagnosis, and informing clinical decision-making.
Conclusion:
Artificial intelligence has the potential to transform pediatric healthcare by improving the identification and management of emotional states, particularly in vulnerable populations. Despite challenges, integrating technology into clinical practice is a promising strategy to promote personalized and emotional care.
Implications:
By recognizing and responding to emotional needs, artificial intelligence in pediatric nursing practice can enhance the personalization of care and create therapeutic environments that are emotionally sensitive, promoting the humanization and effectiveness of interventions. Scoping review registration: doi:10.17605/OSF.IO/NXMH7.
