"Always Want to Use it for Everything": Understanding Young Adults' Perceptions of AI Dependence

AI dependence among young adults stems from three specific behaviors: chronic use, seeking efficiency, and delegating tasks to AI chatbots. The research found that when these three factors combine in how people interact with AI, it indicates problematic dependence rather than casual use.

Users report experiencing skill atrophy and psychological harm: Participants described feeling their own abilities deteriorating from relying on AI chatbots, which led to feelings of inadequacy and concern about their competence—suggesting that heavy AI dependence may undermine confidence and capability development during a critical developmental period.

Young adulthood is a vulnerable period for AI dependence: The study specifically focused on ages 18-25, a formative time for personal and social development. The researchers argue that preventing lasting developmental harm during this period should be a priority for both users and AI developers.

Efficiency-seeking can mask unhealthy dependence patterns: While using AI to work more efficiently seems beneficial on the surface, the research suggests that when efficiency-seeking combines with chronic use and task delegation, it can indicate problematic dependence rather than healthy tool use—highlighting the need for users to reflect on how they're using AI, not just whether they're using it.

Current AI chatbot design may not adequately address dependence risks: The findings suggest implications for rethinking how AI chatbots are designed and deployed, implying that current systems may inadvertently encourage unhealthy dependence patterns among young users.