Researchers at Bournemouth University are warning about the addictive potential of AI conversational tools, such as ChatGPT.
Writing in the journal, Human Centric Intelligent Systems, the research team advise that ChatGPT can blur the line between human and computer interaction by providing instant gratification and adapting a tone of conversation it thinks the user will easily relate to.
They are now working on a tool to measure the level of addiction users experience and the impact to their emotional wellbeing.
Previous studies have explored the impact of human interactions with certain online chatbots, but these bots tend to be limited in scope and have predefined boundaries – such as providing customer service functions. Very little is understood about the psychological impact of ChatGPT, and the Bournemouth researchers argue that the conversational ability of generative AI and the breadth of its capabilities present different challenges.
“By creating conversations that feel continuous and personal, ChatGPT can mimic aspects of human interaction,” said Dr Ala Yankouskaya, Senior Lecturer in Psychology at Bournemouth University and lead author of the article. “This can increase the likelihood of users developing a sense of connection or familiarity with the AI,” she added.
The teams highlight that such a connection may result in greater reliance on ChatGPT for emotional or social needs. “Over time, this reliance can contribute to social isolation, diminished interpersonal skills, and fewer opportunities for real-life connections—issues frequently associated with internet addiction,” Dr Yankouskaya said.
A further risk identified is an over-reliance on ChatGPT’s assistance for decision making and keeping up with the increasing demands to be more productive at work. By providing instant answers and analysis, the researchers warn that ChatGPT might reduce users' critical thinking skills. They also point to previous studies which have shown that over-reliance on AI can lead to inability to make decisions when those tools are not available.
To address the gaps in understanding, Dr Yankouskaya and her team are developing new studies in the psychological impacts of frequent interaction with ChatGPT.
“As AI becomes more integrated into daily life, understanding more about how the risks of people becoming dependent on it is crucial for developing guidelines and safeguards for healthy use,” Dr Yankouskaya concluded.
