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VOL. 11, ISSUE 4 (2025)
FoMo, AI Companions, and emotional isolation: the changing landscape of human connection in post-Chatgpt India
Authors
Falguni Chauhan
Abstract
This mixed-methods study examines the
interplay between Fear of Missing Out (FoMO), AI companions, and emotional
isolation among India’s Gen Z (18–24 years) in the post-ChatGPT era. Grounded
in Social Comparison and Attachment Theories, it explores how FoMO drives
loneliness and whether AI companions (e.g., ChatGPT, Replika) mitigate this
effect. Data from 350 participants were collected via surveys (FoMO Scale, UCLA
Loneliness Scale, AI Usage Scale), 25 semi-structured interviews, and social
media analysis. Results reveal a strong FoMO–loneliness correlation (r = 0.42,
p < 0.01), with AI companion use moderating this relationship (β = -0.22, p
< 0.001) and reducing isolation (β = -0.30, p < 0.001). Qualitative
insights highlight AI as an emotional refuge (18 mentions), though dependency
concerns (10 mentions) suggest risks. In India’s collectivist, tech-driven
context, AI companions address mental health stigma but risk over-reliance.
Findings inform digital literacy, mental health interventions, and AI design,
offering global insights for youth-facing digital pressures. Longitudinal
research is needed to assess long-term impacts.
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Pages:120-125
How to cite this article:
Falguni Chauhan "FoMo, AI Companions, and emotional isolation: the changing landscape of human connection in post-Chatgpt India". International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Research, Vol 11, Issue 4, 2025, Pages 120-125
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