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How Do Artificially Intelligent Companions Influence Psychological Outcomes?
Sponsor: University of Michigan
Summary
This randomized longitudinal study examines how interacting with an artificially intelligent (AI) companion affects psychological well-being, social experiences, and interpersonal attitudes and behaviors over time. A total of 1,200 U.S. adults will be randomly assigned to either interact with an AI companion (via the Replika app) for 10 weeks or continue life as usual. Participants will complete online surveys at baseline, throughout the 10-week study period, and at 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-ups. The study will examine both potential benefits and risks of AI companionship, including effects on psychological well-being, social connection, and interpersonal attitudes and behaviors.
Official title: An Eight-Month Experimental Study of AI Companionship and Its Effects on Well-Being, Social Life, and Interpersonal Attitudes and Behaviors
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
1200
Start Date
2027-08-01
Completion Date
2028-09-01
Last Updated
2026-10-05
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Conditions
Interventions
AI Companion Interaction
Participants assigned to the AI condition will download Replika, an AI companion application, and create a personalized AI companion. Participants will be instructed to interact with their AI companion for at least one hour per week for 10 consecutive weeks. They may interact with their AI companion as much as they would like beyond the required one hour per week.
Locations (1)
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States