How AI Work Unveils Loneliness and Insomnia

Frequent interaction with AI systems can lead to loneliness, insomnia, and increased after-work drinking, according to research published by the American Psychological Association. Studies conducted in multiple countries showed consistent findings across cultures.

Participants with higher levels of attachment anxiety responded more strongly to working on AI systems, displaying both positive reactions, such as helping others, and negative ones, such as loneliness and insomnia.

The research included experiments with engineers in a Taiwanese biomedical company, real estate consultants in an Indonesian property management company, full-time working adults in the U.S., and employees at a Malaysian tech company.

Findings indicated that employees who interacted more frequently with AI systems experienced higher levels of loneliness, insomnia, and increased after-work alcohol consumption. However, they also exhibited some helpful behaviors toward colleagues.

It is important to note that the research findings are correlational and do not establish a causal relationship between work with AI systems and these responses. Nevertheless, the study highlights an association among them, emphasizing the potential impact of AI system interactions on employee well-being.

Reference:

No Person Is an Island: Unpacking the Work and After-work Consequences of Interacting with Artificial Intelligence,Journal of Applied Psychology