Date of Award

Spring 2024

Thesis Type

Rollins Access Only

Degree Name

Honors Bachelor of Arts

Department

Communication

Sponsor

Anne Stone

Committee Member

Matthew Forsythe

Committee Member

Hesham Mesbah

Abstract

As mental health needs persist and technological advancements continue to evolve, this study investigates the potential of conversational AI chatbots to supplement — or even replace — traditional therapeutic practices. Inspired by 1966 ELIZA's psychotherapist simulation, this project explores the perceptions and climate of contemporary feelings amidst a new digital era with character-based chatbots now engaging in remarkably life-like conversations, garnering millions of users on platforms like Character.AI, Pi.ai, and apps like Replika, asking the specific reasons why users would approach these tools rather than in-person equivalents. Through mixed methods including a quantitative survey and sentiment analysis, this research explores current perceptions surrounding chatbots' viability as long-term therapy solutions compared to human therapists. Evaluating uses, gratifications, benefits, and limitations, the data reveals complex, varied attitudes toward AI services: increased accessibility, affordability, and personalization are praised, with concerns over privacy, lack of human connection, and empathy hindering widespread acceptance. A significant connection was found between age and attitudes, as younger respondents emerge as "early adopters," perceiving chatbots more positively, while older groups demonstrate resistance. Both studies reveal reactions that skew negatively regarding AI usage in therapeutic settings. Ultimately, responsible integration combining AI's strengths (non-judgmental, cost-effective) with human expertise (warmth, empathy, connection) is discussed and recommended for effective mental health support.

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Available for download on Sunday, May 11, 2025

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