A woman has expressed concern over her 44-year-old boyfriend's extensive reliance on AI, particularly ChatGPT. Her boyfriend, who has ADHD and runs his own business, uses AI for both work and daily tasks, including queries like train times, even when more accurate non-AI alternatives exist. He ranks in the top 0.3% of ChatGPT users globally. The girlfriend is worried about his independent thinking and the environmental impact of AI use.
Expert Insights: Unpacking AI Dependence
Consultant clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst Dr. Stephen Blumenthal suggested that society might be approaching a new diagnostic category called "chatbot overdependence syndrome." He noted that while AI can be highly beneficial for individuals with ADHD due to its ability to aid with attention span, focus, planning, and task completion, it also carries a greater risk of overdependence.
Henry Shelford, CEO of ADHD UK, questioned if the boyfriend's AI use is a "flotation aid" for underlying struggles, emphasizing AI's potential to help structure thoughts and manage tasks. However, he also indicated that the boyfriend's level of reliance suggests he might be doubting himself.
Dr. Blumenthal further explained that problems arise when AI use moves beyond practical problem-solving and begins to resemble a relationship, where users project human qualities onto the AI, seeking validation and care.
Advice for Addressing the Concern
Experts advise against nagging, as it is generally ineffective. Instead, they recommend choosing a calm moment for a discussion.
Shelford suggested asking the boyfriend:
"What are you getting out of it? Why is this tool such a big deal and what are the gaps it’s filling?"
This approach aims to understand the underlying motivations for his AI use and explore potential alternative or improved solutions.
Dr. Blumenthal emphasized that, as with any overdependence, recognition of a problem is the first step. He advised a compassionate approach, highlighting that removing the AI "scaffold" might feel threatening to the individual. The girlfriend is encouraged to remind her boyfriend of his past ability to function effectively without AI, hoping he can find a balance where AI augments his existing abilities. Identifying any underlying anxiety is also suggested as a crucial step for moving forward.