Robotic role theory: an integrative review of human–robot service interaction to advance role theory in the age of social robots

Purpose Social robots increasingly adopt service roles in the marketplace. While research is beginning to unravel implications for theory and practice, other scientific disciplines have amassed a wealth of empirical data assuming such roles. The purpose this paper synthesize these findings from role perspective with aim advancing human–robot interaction (HRSI). Design/methodology/approach A systematic review more than 10,000 articles revealed 149 HRSI-related papers across disciplines. respective are analyzed employing qualitative content analysis through lens theory. Findings This develops an organizing structure HRSI literature disciplines, delineates development age social robots, advances robotic by providing overarching framework corresponding propositions. Finally, introduces avenues future research. Originality/value study pioneers comprehensive adopting structures body literature, adapts traditional derives novel propositions (i.e. theory), promising opportunities.