Is GPT Use Associated with Addiction? A Brief Research Report

This study explores the relationship between GPT usage and addiction-related traits through a questionnaire survey. The research participants included 22 graduate students (master’s and doctoral candidates) who have been using GPT extensively for academic research. The results suggest that GPT usage correlates with certain characteristics of addiction, particularly in terms of mood modification, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms (according to the biopsychosocial framework of addiction). Many participants considered GPT essential for their research work, with usage frequency increasing over time, indicating a trend towards greater adaptability. Mood modification was primarily influenced by the purpose of use: when GPT served as a conversational partner, it was seen as relaxing, while its use as a tool elicited emotional responses dependent on its performance. Additionally, some participants reported mild anxiety or discomfort when unable to access GPT, especially when practical needs were unmet. A few participants expressed concern that over-reliance on GPT could negatively impact independent thinking and learning abilities, and they also raised concerns about potential academic integrity issues arising from its use. Overall, while GPT use exhibited some addictive traits, its role as a tool differentiates these traits from those associated with traditional substance addictions. Future research should further investigate the potential harms and addictive potential of GPT use across various user groups.