With AI platforms gaining popularity, some individuals are developing AI dependence. Just as with many behavioral addictions, AI dependence can pose health risks (including emotional dependence, decreased cognitive processing, and difficulty with problem-solving) and also has the potential to impact relationships and work or school performance. This makes it essential to know the warning signs and how to manage AI dependence if it arises.
What is AI dependence?
Since we are still in the relatively early days of artificial intelligence (AI) development and use, our definition of AI dependence is still dynamic. Currently, it is broad – an overreliance on tools created by artificial intelligence. This allows the term to encompass various AI issues such as strong attachments to chatbots, the overuse of AI tools for academic coursework, and other concerns that may have yet to be identified.
As with many other behavioral addictions, AI dependence involves compulsive use of artificial intelligence that leads to functional disruptions. The exact effects of AI dependence are poorly understood, and more research is needed in this area. As of now, this concern has been observed to influence emotion regulation skills, social function, and work and academic performance. [1]
AI dependence has also been linked to a decline in cognitive skills and executive functions like attention span, problem-solving, and decision-making. [1] This outcome makes it a particular threat to youth who are in the process of developing these abilities.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) does not currently include many behavioral addictions like internet addiction, social media addiction, or AI addiction. As a result, there is a lot of inconsistency regarding AI dependence diagnostic criteria and associated treatment measures. [2]
However, standards for terms related to AI addiction are emerging. For instance, heavy AI use is characterized by, at a minimum, daily use. Research shows that most individuals who engage in heavy AI use interact with these tools multiple times each day. This problem appears to be more common in teens and young adults, who are among the heaviest users of AI-driven technologies.
Is AI dependence the same as addiction?
AI dependence and AI addiction are closely related, and addiction can be thought of as a more severe form of dependence. When someone becomes psychologically attached to AI use over a period of weeks, months, or longer, this is a sign of AI dependence. AI addiction, on the other hand, occurs when someone struggles to resist urges to use AI, even after it is obviously causing problems and impairment.Â
Why AI use can become compulsive
Research shows that addictive behaviors may partly stem from an imbalance between the brain’s dopaminergic circuits and similar neural pathways that support executive function. [3]Â
Dopaminergic circuits help us feel a sense of reward from certain behaviors, leading us to develop an internal motivation for certain habits. If executive functions (such as problem-solving and decision-making) decline while reward and motivation increase, this can cause compulsive tendencies that may lead to addiction. Because AI technologies can stimulate dopamine pathways in the brain while also impairing executive functioning, some users may develop patterns of compulsive use.
Signs of AI dependence
Individuals with AI dependence are likely to display certain signs that point toward problematic behaviors. These may include: [4]
- Feeling a strong, irresistible urge to use AI after a short period of time without it.
- Spending an inordinate amount of time using AI, and decreasing time spent on other important social, recreational, or educational activities.
- Using AI excessively during school, work, or while in the presence of loved ones.
- Demonstrating strong emotions to AI chatbot responses, search results, etc.
- Reaching for AI shortly after waking up each day.
- Getting into regular disagreements or intense conversations with chatbots.
- Displaying mood changes, such as mood swings or a general increase in feelings of depression or anxiety.
- Experiencing sleep changes (difficulty falling asleep, trouble staying asleep, or getting poor quality rest).
- Having difficulty focusing at work, school, or when with loved ones.
- Neglecting responsibilities such as chores, paying bills, or personal care.
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop using AI technologies.
- Relying on AI technologies to cope, regulate moods, or make basic decisions.
Emotional dependence on AI
Studies show that non-verbal social behaviors, empathy, interactional abilities, visual and linguistic cues, and other features have been included to make AI more human-like. [5] These factors have also increased the likelihood of emotional attachment to AI, which can increase the risk for AI dependence.Â
Risk factors for developing AI dependence
Individuals are most likely to seek out an emotional attachment from AI if they lack (and desire) self-reflection, psychological support, and social interaction. Furthermore, this relationship can be perpetuated, leading to emotional dependence, through deeply personal and emotional disclosures and prolonged, regular contact. [6] In addition to isolation and poor social skills, having an underlying, untreated mental health condition may also increase the likelihood of dependence. Heavy, frequent users may also be at higher risk for developing AI dependence.
Impacts of AI dependence
Because AI-driven technology is relatively new, more research is needed to understand AI dependence and its effects on physical, emotional, and social health. Existing research shows that extended usage of AI tools resulted in cognitive overload, decreased ability to make decisions, and mental exhaustion. Other related outcomes included an increase in emotional stress, greater pressure to engage in critical decision-making, and decreased attention span. [1][3]
Evidence also shows that, within healthcare professionals and educators, AI dependence was associated with moderate emotional dependence due to the stressful conditions these populations tend to work under. [1] Due to the novelty of AI research, there is a lack of longitudinal studies on this topic, making it an area of opportunity in the coming years.Â
How to manage or reduce AI dependence
One of the best ways to reduce the likelihood of AI dependence is to integrate AI considerations with those for mental well-being. This balances out the negative psychological impact of AI while maximizing the positive aspects of this technology, such as enhanced decision-making and improved efficiency. [1]
While it may seem counterintuitive, researchers suggest that certain AI tools (such as those that assist with productivity, time management, planning, and scheduling) can actually assist in overcoming AI dependence if they are used intentionally. [3]
Lifestyle changes are also an important part of managing this health concern. Individuals with AI dependence are urged to engage in offline activities and hobbies that encourage higher-level thinking and other executive functions. Similarly, it’s advised to supplement any AI use with collaboration alongside fellow students and colleagues to ensure a proper exchange of ideas. Individuals recovering from AI dependence may also choose to block off certain times of day for AI use to prevent it from impacting their relationships. [4]
Talk therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) have shown promise in managing Internet addiction, meaning there is a possible carryover for the management of AI dependence. [2]
When to seek professional help
It is important that people are aware of when it is time to seek professional help for AI dependence. If you find yourself experiencing drastic personality changes or increasing amounts of depression or anxiety, it may be time to consult a mental health professional. Similarly, a healthcare provider can help if your sleep or relationships are impacted by AI use or if you are demonstrating difficulty fulfilling your responsibilities at work, school, or home due to these habits.
