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This study investigates how verbal empathic behavior expressed by a robot influences user perceptions in human–robot interaction and examines the psychological mechanisms underlying these effects. While robots do not genuinely experience empathy, users may still interpret empathic behavior as meaningful by engaging in anthropomorphism—the attribution of human-like traits such as emotion and intention to non-human agents (Epley et al., 2007; Fink 2012). Prior research often shows indeed that empathic robots are evaluated positively (Anzabi et al., 2023; Brave et al., 2005; Fan et al., 2017; Leite et al., 2013). However, many studies rely on broad or inconsistent definitions of empathy. In contrast, studies applying theory-based definitions—incorporating both cognitive (perspective-taking) and affective (emotional resonance) components—have yielded mixed results (Weck & Krämer, in preparation; Weck & Krämer, manuscript submitted for publication). Weck and Krämer (manuscript submitted for publication) found that empathic behavior enhances positive evaluations, whereas a separate study by the same authors (in preparation) suggests it may decrease likeability. These inconsistencies highlight the need to better understand not only how users interpret empathic behavior, but also the psychological processes that shape those interpretations. In the present study, participants will watch one of two scripted videos depicting a humanoid robot (Nao) interacting with a student in an academic stress context. In the empathy condition, the robot expresses verbal responses reflecting both cognitive and affective empathy; in the control condition, the robot offers neutral, task-oriented support. The study tests whether empathic behavior increases likeability, warmth, and competence, and reduces discomfort. It also examines the psychological factors that influence these effects: specifically, whether outcomes are shaped by perceived empathy, and whether they depend on the degree of perceived anthropomorphism.