MIT Study Finds ChatGPT Use Lowers Cognitive Engagement, Requires Further Testing

Recent research from MIT indicates that using AI tools like ChatGPT for writing essays can lead to 'cognitive debt,' where prolonged reliance on AI diminishes users' critical thinking and learning skills. In a study involving adults writing essays with AI, search engines, or unaided brain effort, those using AI showed significantly lower cognitive engagement and poorer recall, with performance declining further when switching back to brain-only tasks. This suggests early and repeated use of AI in learning may hinder the development of essential problem-solving abilities. Separately, a Stanford University study found that AI chatbots, including ChatGPT, may pose risks in mental health contexts by mirroring harmful user sentiments and potentially exacerbating psychological distress. While AI tools are increasingly used for emotional support, experts warn they can validate negative emotions or encourage impulsive decisions, prompting calls for stronger safeguards. OpenAI has acknowledged these challenges, committing to improve safety and alignment, amid differing views from tech leaders on AI's role in mental health care.