Individual differences in anthropomorphism help explain social connection to AI companions.

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Psychology
• Artificial Intelligence Studies

Background:

• Conversational artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used for social support and companionship.
• Existing research on AI companions is divided on whether genuine emotional connection is possible.
• One perspective argues AI's lack of emotions prevents connection, while another suggests the illusion of emotion suffices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if individual differences in anthropomorphism can reconcile differing views on AI companionship.
• To explore how people's tendency to attribute human-like qualities to AI impacts their social connection with it.

Main Methods:

• Two experiments were conducted with a total of 1274 participants.
• Participants completed a measure of anthropomorphism.
• Participants were randomly assigned to either converse with a chatbot or journal about their past month, followed by a social connection assessment.

Main Results:

• Results indicate that anthropomorphism significantly influences the ability to form social connections with AI.
• For individuals with low anthropomorphism, AI's artificiality is a barrier to meaningful connection.
• For individuals with high anthropomorphism, AI's artificiality is less significant, and connection is more readily achieved.

Conclusions:

• Anthropomorphism acts as a key factor in bridging the divide regarding emotional connection with AI.
• The capacity to attribute human qualities to AI can overcome perceived artificial limitations.
• Understanding individual differences in anthropomorphism is crucial for designing effective AI companions.