Ghost in the Machine: Exploring Designed Fear in HRI

This paper examines how robots can safely and intentionally evoke fear in humans. Drawing on popular culture, immersive theater, horror games, and theme parks, we highlight design strategies such as unpredictability, proximity violations, and narrative buildup. We discuss how robot morphology, motion, and ambient cues shape perceived threat, with implications for entertainment-focused Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) and for preventing unintentional fear in everyday interactions. The paper aims to spark discussion on leveraging fear as a meaningful, ethical, and safe emotional modality in human–robot interaction.