The emergence of DeepSeek, a Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) application, has garnered significant attention due to its rapid ascent in popularity and the psychological implications associated with its use. Developed by Liang Wenfeng in 2023, DeepSeek has surpassed competitors like ChatGPT to become the highest-rated app on the U.S. App Store as of January 25, 2025 (The Sun, 2025). This article delves into the psychological effects of interacting with AI chatbots like DeepSeek, examining both the potential benefits and concerns.
Keywords: DeepSeek, AI chatbots, psychological impact, mental health support, ELIZA effect, emotional dependence, cultural bias in AI.
Psychological Benefits of AI Chatbots
AI chatbots offer several advantages in the realm of mental health support. They provide 24/7 accessibility, allowing individuals to seek assistance at any time, which is particularly beneficial for those who may not have immediate access to traditional mental health services (Simmons, 2024). Moreover, chatbots can offer a non-judgmental space for users to discuss their thoughts and feelings, potentially reducing the stigma associated with seeking help. Studies have indicated that interactions with AI chatbots can lead to improved self-esteem and overall well-being, as users perceive these interactions as understanding and supportive (Salah, 2024).
Potential Psychological Risks
Despite these benefits, there are notable concerns regarding the psychological impact of AI chatbots. One significant issue is the development of emotional dependence. Users may form strong attachments to chatbots, leading to a preference for AI interactions over human connections, which can negatively affect real-life relationships (Siau & Wang, 2024). This phenomenon, often referred to as the “ELIZA effect,” highlights the tendency of individuals to attribute human-like qualities to AI, potentially leading to misunderstandings about the capabilities and limitations of these systems (Weizenbaum, 1966).
Furthermore, AI chatbots may not fully comprehend the nuances of human emotions, leading to inappropriate or inadequate responses during critical moments. Privacy concerns also arise, as users may share sensitive personal information with these platforms without fully understanding how their data is stored or used (Simmons, 2024).
Cultural and Ethical Considerations
The cultural context in which an AI chatbot is developed can significantly influence its responses. DeepSeek, for instance, has provided responses aligning with specific political perspectives, raising questions about bias and the ethical implications of AI in disseminating information (The Scottish Sun, 2025). This underscores the importance of transparency in AI development and the need for users to critically assess the information provided by such platforms.
Conclusion
While AI chatbots like DeepSeek offer promising avenues for mental health support and companionship, it is crucial to approach their use with caution. Understanding both the psychological benefits and potential risks is essential for users and developers alike. As AI continues to evolve, ongoing research and ethical considerations will play pivotal roles in ensuring that these technologies serve to enhance, rather than hinder, human well-being.
References
- Simmons, M. (2024). AI Chatbots for Mental Health: Opportunities and Limitations’, Psychology Today, 15 July. Available at: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-psyche-pulse/202407/ai-chatbots-for-mental-health-opportunities-and-limitations
- Siau, K. & Wang, W. (2024). ‘AI Technology Panic—Is AI Dependence Bad for Mental Health? A Review of the Literature’, Journal of Technology in Behavioral Science, 10(2), pp. 123-135.
- Salah, M. (2024). ‘Unveiling the Psychological Effects of Chatting with AI Chatbots’, The Academic, 22 March. Available at: https://theacademic.com/minds-and-machines-with-ai-chatbots/
- Weizenbaum, J. (1966). ‘ELIZA—A Computer Program for the Study of Natural Language Communication Between Man and Machine’, Communications of the ACM, 9(1), pp. 36-45.
- The Sun (2025). ‘What is DeepSeek? AI App Gains Popularity on Apple and Play Store Charts’, The Sun, 25 January. Available at: https://www.the-sun.com/tech/13389173/deepseek-ai-app-apple-android-store/
- The Scottish Sun (2025). ‘China’s AI DeepSeek Gives Chilling Responses to Human Rights & Taiwan Queries as Bombshell #1 App Sparks Market Meltdown’, The Scottish Sun, 26 January. Available at: https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/tech/14240694/chinas-ai-deepseek-chilling-responses-human-rights/
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