A study by OpenAI and MIT Media Lab indicates that while ChatGPT enhances productivity for its 400 million weekly active users, it could also increase feelings of loneliness. Researchers found that heavy users, termed 'power users', experienced this loneliness despite initial benefits from voice interactions. The analysis included millions of conversations, along with surveys assessing self-reported behaviors, revealing complex emotional responses. The findings suggest a potential negative impact similar to social media, emphasizing that technology might contribute to social isolation over time.
"Our analysis reveals that a small number of users are responsible for a disproportionate share of the most affective cues," wrote the researchers of the joint paper."
"While most participants spent a relatively short amount of time chatting with the chatbot, a smaller number of power users engaged more deeply, leading to nuanced feelings of loneliness."
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