Psychosocial Implications of Emotional Dependence on Artificial Intelligence among Adolescents in Awka, Anambra State

Abstract

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into adolescent life has created new pathways for emotional interaction, raising concerns about psychosocial consequences. This study investigated the psychosocial implications of adolescents’ emotional dependence on AI in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria. The objectives were to examine the extent of adolescents’ emotional dependence on AI, the psychosocial implications associated with adolescents’ emotional dependence on AI and the factors responsible for adolescents’ emotional dependence on AI. A descriptive survey design was employed. The study adopted a multi-stage sampling technique involving purposive selection of five holiday camps from a population of 1,658 adolescents (12-19 years), followed by total enumeration (census) of eligible participants within the selected camps. Based on the study’s focus, only adolescents who owned or had access to smartphones were included, resulting in a final sample of 332 respondents. Data were collected using a validated instrument (PIEDAQ), with a reliability coefficient of 0.82. Descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation) addressed the research questions. Findings revealed moderate emotional dependence on AI, with ChatGPT, Snapchat My AI and Character.AI reported as most frequently used. Reported psychosocial implications included reduced peer interaction, increased loneliness, diminished trust and academic disruption. The study concludes that while AI offers immediate comfort, overreliance threatens adolescents’ psychosocial well-being, necessitating parental engagement, school counseling and responsible AI use policies.