University of South Florida researchers are pioneering the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to identify post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children. Led by Alison Salloum from the School of Social Work and Shaun Canavan from the Bellini College for Artificial Intelligence, the study addresses the challenges of recognizing PTSD symptoms, particularly avoidance behaviors in young children. Clinical trials revealed behavioral changes such as anger and withdrawal, prompting the need for innovative assessment tools. The AI system analyzes facial expressions to distinguish between children with and without PTSD, focusing on muscle movements indicative of emotional responses. Privacy is paramount; the AI converts video data into non-readable formats, ensuring protection for the participants. While currently in pilot stages, the goal is to refine this model for potential clinical applications. Future plans include adapting the technology for preschoolers, emphasizing its utility in psychosocial assessments without the need for verbal communication.
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