Artificial animals, real bonds? Association of animatronic pet ownership and psychosocial outcomes in the German general adult population

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the association between having animatronic pets and psychosocial outcomes in Germany. Subject and methods: Data were collected from a quota-based sample reflecting the adult population of Germany (aged 18–74 years; total n = 5000). The mean age of participants was approximately 47 years (SD: 15 years). Validated and reliable psychometric instruments were used to measure psychosocial outcomes. Having animatronic pets served as the key independent variable. Adjusted linear regression models were used to analyze the relationships of interest. Results: Compared to individuals who neither owned nor were interested in acquiring animatronic pets, both those without animatronic pets but who expressed interest in obtaining one and those who owned animatronic pets exhibited higher levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms, along with increased loneliness, perceived social isolation, and social withdrawal. Such differences were particularly pronounced for those with animatronic pets. Conclusion: Individuals with interest in obtaining animatronic pets and those with animatronic pets had poorer psychosocial factors. Further studies are required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Moreover, cross-country comparisons and longitudinal studies are recommended.