People who experience high social anxiety often feel lonely and spend more time dwelling on their thoughts. This can lead them to rely on conversations with AI chat services like ChatGPT or Apple Siri. Researchers from the City University of Hong Kong studied this phenomenon and published their findings in Computers in Human Behavior. The study sheds light on how AI-driven dialogue assistants fit into everyday life for individuals who struggle with social interaction.
These AI systems are conversational agents powered by artificial intelligence that can hold extended dialogues with users. The researchers suggest that as speech-based AI becomes more common, some people may lean more on these tools to fill moments of social discomfort. The personalized nature of AI replies and the human-like flow of conversations can make users stay engaged with their devices for longer periods, potentially forming new bonds with technology itself.
In this study, 516 participants interacted frequently with neural networks and completed surveys to gauge levels of loneliness, rumination, obsessive thoughts, perceptions of artificial intelligence, and patterns of AI usage. The results indicate that even those with stronger social networks might turn to speech AI as a supplemental element in their social lives, rather than as a substitute for real-world contact.
The researchers concluded that speech-enabled AI could serve as a compensatory tool for socially engaged individuals who face gaps in face-to-face interaction. This suggests a nuanced role for AI companions: they can provide support and connection in moments of need without fully replacing human contact. Canadian and American readers may relate to how these tools fit into daily routines, from quick check-ins to more sustained conversations that mimic the rhythm of human dialogue. The study emphasizes responsible use and mindful engagement with technology to balance digital help with real-world relationships. It also points toward future inquiries about how to design AI that respects personal boundaries, preserves autonomy, and supports mental well-being while avoiding overdependence.