Artificial intelligence is everywhere these days, changing how we live and work. But have you ever wondered how this tech affects our emotions? Recent research by Prof. Guy Hochman and Adi Frenkenberg from Reichman University dives into this very topic, exploring the link between anxiety and our growing reliance on AI.
Published in the journal Systems, the study offers some eye-opening insights. It reveals a U-shaped curve in anxiety levels connected to AI usage. If you’re not using AI much, you might feel anxious about the unknown, viewing AI as a threat. This fear can hold you back professionally, making you hesitant to embrace new tech.
On the flip side, using AI in moderation can actually reduce anxiety. When you engage with AI thoughtfully, you’re likely to feel more empowered and confident. You understand its limits and can integrate it smoothly into your daily routine. However, if you rely too heavily on AI, it can lead to a different kind of anxiety. You might find yourself struggling to make decisions without it, which can impact your problem-solving skills and sense of control.
The study involved 242 English-speaking participants aged 18 to 73, using validated questionnaires to measure AI-related anxiety, motivations, and dependencies. These findings suggest that AI isn’t just a tech challenge; it’s a psychological one too. It’s crucial to find a balanced approach to using AI, one that maximizes benefits while minimizing emotional risks.
This research helps us better understand how smart technologies shape our mental landscape, encouraging a more thoughtful approach to adopting AI in our tech-driven world.
