New research links AI chatbot dependency to severe psychological risks

A new study published in the journal JMIR Mental Health, conducted by researchers from Northeastern University London and King’s College London, warns of the significant psychological risks associated with the emotional use of AI chatbots. While these tools offer practical assistance for students and researchers, the study highlights a dangerous shift when users begin to rely on them as emotional support systems or personal advisors.

The findings document severe negative outcomes, including addiction-like dependencies, the aggravation of existing mental health disorders, and the receipt of harmful guidance. Researchers have scientifically validated the phenomenon of "AI psychosis," where interactions lead to delusional or paranoid thinking. In extreme cases, this psychological shift has been linked to instances of self-harm and suicidal behavior. Lead author Asia Maurich Novelli notes that the impact of these systems varies significantly between individuals.

This research emphasizes the need for awareness regarding the psychological boundaries of human-AI interaction. As chatbots become increasingly integrated into daily routines, the scientific community is now calling attention to the potential for emotional dependency to transition into clinical harm.