The Robot Heartbeat: Handling Win/Loss Emotions in the Arena

Social Science & Mental Health

16. The Robot Heartbeat: Handling Win/Loss Emotions in the Arena

Combat robotics is thrilling, with moments of triumph and defeat. Just like human athletes, robot builders experience a roller coaster of emotions. Learning how to manage these feelings, whether it's the joy of a win or the disappointment of a loss, is a vital part of Social Emotional Learning (SEL).

Imagine if a robot, like Marty the Robot, could show expressions. When it wins, maybe its lights flash green and it makes a happy whirring sound. When it loses, maybe its lights dim and it sighs. While robots don't truly feel emotions, this simple idea helps us understand our own. After a hard-fought match, win or lose, it's important to recognize and acknowledge what you're feeling.

Winning feels great because it validates hard work and clever design. Losing, however, can bring frustration, sadness, or even anger. The key isn't to pretend these feelings don't exist, but to learn healthy ways to express them and move forward. Taking a moment to breathe, talk with teammates, or reflect on what was learned (rather than just focusing on the outcome) helps process these emotions. This emotional regulation builds resilience, preparing builders not just for the next match, but for life's many challenges.