Research Symposium

BIO

Hi, I'm Emma! I'm currently an undergraduate student at FSU pursuing my Bachelor's in Behavioral Neuroscience, with the goal of becoming a Neuropsychologist in the distant future. My research interests are human-AI interactions and pediatric psychology.

Companionship Without Commitment: Exploring the Consequences of Human-AI Relationships

Abstract

Loneliness has become an increasingly pervasive issue in contemporary society, exacerbated by factors such as widespread social media use and declining mental health. Meanwhile, advances in artificial intelligence have introduced new forms of companionship that bypass the complexities inherent in human relationships. As a result, AI companionship has emerged as an appealing alternative for individuals who struggle with traditional social interactions, offering a means to fulfill social and emotional needs. However, reliance on AI for social connection may carry unintended consequences, potentially including stunted social development and increases in social anxiety. In the present study, participants sampled from Florida State University completed a baseline survey that included measures of rejection sensitivity, attachment anxiety, loneliness, and depression, and were then provided access to a friendly chatbot for 21 days. During this period, they completed daily surveys that asked them to report the amount of time they spent with close others as well as the provided AI. On day 22, participants completed a check-in survey with the same measures as the baseline. Analyses will test the prediction that rejection sensitivity and attachment anxiety will be positively associated with the amount of time spent using AI, and that AI usage will be associated with declines in loneliness and depression from baseline to check-in.

Keywords: AI Psychology Human-AI