SPECIAL ISSUE
Multimodal Investigation of Human-Robot Interaction in complex environments:
neurophysiological, peripheral, and cognitive-behavioural correlates

Submission deadline: 20 November 2026

Neuropsychological Trends invites contributions to a Special Issue dedicated to the multimodal investigation of human-robot interaction (HRI), with a particular focus on the neurophysiological, peripheral psychophysiological, cognitive, and behavioural correlates of interaction between humans and robotic systems in complex environments.

The increasing integration of robots and artificial intelligence into healthcare, education, workplaces, rehabilitation, and other complex real-world settings raises important questions about how humans perceive, process, adapt to, and respond to robotic agents. Understanding these processes requires the integration of multiple levels of analysis, ranging from brain activity and autonomic responses to cognitive processes and observable behaviour.

This Special Issue aims to bring together empirical, methodological, theoretical, and review contributions adopting multimodal approaches to the study of Human-Robot Interaction, particularly in complex, dynamic, and ecologically relevant environments.

We welcome studies investigating how human-robot interaction is reflected in neural and neurophysiological activity, peripheral psychophysiological responses, cognitive performance, emotional and social processes, and behavioural outcomes, as well as research integrating multiple measures to provide a more comprehensive understanding of HRI.

Types of contributions

The Special Issue welcomes Original Research Articles, Theoretical Contributions, Mini review, Methodological Papers, and other relevant contributions addressing the neurophysiological, peripheral, cognitive, and behavioural correlates of Human–Robot Interaction.

The journal aims to introduce new ideas on the field of biological bases of behaviour and of the neurological perspectives applied to psychological processes. Specifically it intends to offer an ample space for innovative research methodologies and new theoretical views on the neuropsychological discipline. Methodological discussion will constitute a main topic of the journal. Specific attention will be given to the development of new theories and/or research methodologies applicable to group and single-case studies.

All contributions should be no longer than 3,000 words, including all elements of the manuscript, except for the abstract.

 

Manuscript submission

All manuscripts should be submitted in accordance with the standard submission procedures outlined in the “For Authors” section of Neuropsychological Trends by e-mail to: neuropsychologicaltrends@psychoneuronet.com

Please indicate in the subject line that the manuscript is submitted for this Special Issue.