Workers using AI are more susceptible to loneliness, insomnia and drinking

A Artificial intelligence (AI) is among the most debated topics today, mainly about its effect on people's lives. According to research, workers who regularly deal with AI systems are more likely to feel lonely.

Artificial intelligence and mental health

doctor Pok Man Tang, the study's principal investigator, decided to investigate this issue and conducted four cross-cultural trials in the United States, Taiwan, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

His interest in this topic stemmed from his previous experience working with AI in an investment bank. The results of his research were published in the Journal of Applied Psychology.

Today, many companies are embracing AI software in their operations, leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as voice assistants and chatbots. While there are still worker concerns about automation, it appears that AI has become the new business trend.

Working with AI systems has its advantages, but the researchers found that the employees who use these programs regularly are more likely to help their colleagues of work.

This may be related to the feeling of loneliness and the desire for social interaction that these people have.

Research has shown how AI affects those who already have high levels of anxiety around interpersonal relationships, impacting their mental health. This manifests itself in heightened responses when using AI systems, characterized by feelings of nervousness and preoccupation with social ties.

These responses can be both positive, such as offering help, and negative, such as feeling lonely and insomnia.

In one specific study, conducted over a three-week period with 166 engineers from a biomedical company in Taiwan, it was found that workers who interacted with AI systems more frequently were more likely to suffer from loneliness, insomnia and increased alcohol consumption after work.

It is important to remember that these research findings only show a connection between working with AI systems and feelings of loneliness or other reactions, not a direct cause and effect relationship.

To promote more authentic human interactions, Tang proposed that future developments in AI technology include social aspects such as a more human voice. Employers may also consider limiting the frequency of use of AI systems and providing employees with opportunities for social interaction.