This paper describes the use of empathic agents in the development of an interactive pedagogical drama for the recognition and treatment of depression in adolescents. The primary aim of our work is to provide a clearer understanding of depression, and the way in which sufferers' individual responses to external factors have a negative impact on their emotions. A review of current research into depression and its treatment is presented followed by a review of contemporary computer-based forms of treatment. Finally, we try to bring together these different lines of research and present the hypothesis that the use of empathic interaction by social agents can provide a useful forum for those suffering depressive episodes to obtain treatment. We conclude by presenting the development of a pre-scripted prototype along with proposed testing and evaluation strategies and a discussion of our findings.
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