Living with and without AI: A mixed-methods study on AI usage, addiction, and 'AIlessphobia' in nursing students

The aim of this study is to examine nursing students' attitudes toward AI use, their patterns of use and levels of AI addiction, as well as to evaluate the impact of emerging fears such as AIlessphobia.

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving and is increasingly being used among university students. Concepts such as "AIlessphobia" -the fear of being without AI- highlight the emergence of these issues.

This study used a mixed-methods design.

The study was carried out during the 2024-2025 Spring Semester with nursing students. Data were collected using the Scale for Dependence on Artificial Intelligence (DAI) and semi-structured interview questions. Qualitative interviews were conducted with students who scored 15 or higher on DAI. The quantitative sample consists of 200 students and the qualitative sample was determined based on quantitative and qualitative data.

Most participants (81.5 %) reported using AI tools, with ChatGPT being the most preferred among them. The interview included 13 questions and the themes emerged during the individual interviews. Thematic analysis highlighted five themes: educational benefits, negative effects, AI addiction, future expectations and AIlessphobia. Students noted that AI eased learning but reduced critical thinking and reported emotional distress when deprived of AI access.

The widespread use of AI tools in education produces both positive and negative effects. It is essential for educators to support students in integrating these tools with critical thinking skills and digital awareness. Such support is crucial for preventing AI addiction and AIlessphobia.