A research group led by Associate Professor Koji Yatani at the University of Tokyo’s Graduate School of Engineering has shown that a “group-based conversational system,” in which multiple chatbots have conversations with a user can effectively alleviate the physical and emotional discomfort associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
During a two-month study involving 63 participants, the researchers found that the system fostered a reassuring sense of camaraderie and encouraged users to reflect on their own symptoms through the diverse perspectives shared by chatbots acting as peer participants. Compared with conventional one-on-one chat systems, the group format increased the volume of user utterances, boosted engagement, and encouraged exploration of a wider range of coping strategies. The division of roles among the chatbots also enabled the delivery of both concrete suggestions and empathetic responses across a broader spectrum of needs.
Because the system allows users to engage in group-style conversations even when going out or seeking in-person counseling is difficult, it has the potential to reduce feelings of isolation and the reluctance to seek help caused by PMS, thereby creating a more supportive environment for many women.
Papers
Conference: 2025 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems (ACM CHI 2025)
Title: Beyond the Dialogue: Multi-chatbot Group Motivational Interviewing for Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Management
Authors: Shixian Geng*, Remi Inayoshi, Chi-Lan Yang, Zefan Sramek, Yuya Umeda, Chiaki Kasahara, Arissa J. Sato, Simo Hosio, and Koji Yatani*
DOI: 10.1145/3706598.3713918