Loneliness and AI chatbot dependence in young adults: the mediating role of perceived social support

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have facilitated the widespread integration of AI chatbots into everyday life, positioning them as alternative agents for social and emotional interaction. While such technologies may help regulate experiences of loneliness, stress, and social isolation, increasing reliance on AI-mediated interactions raises concerns regarding the emergence of maladaptive use patterns, including AI chatbot dependence. Despite growing attention to technology-related dependence, the underlying psychosocial mechanisms remain insufficiently examined. Accordingly, this study investigates the association between loneliness and AI chatbot dependence, with a particular focus on the mediating role of perceived social support among young adults. METHODS: A quantitative research design was employed using a relational survey approach. Data were collected via an online questionnaire from 610 young adults (aged 18-30) residing in Türkiye. Measures included the UCLA Loneliness Scale-6, the AI Chatbot Dependence Scale, and the Perceived Social Support Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and structural equation modeling (SEM) conducted in AMOS 24.0. The mediating effect was tested using a bootstrapping procedure. RESULTS: Loneliness was positively associated with AI chatbot dependence, whereas it was negatively associated with perceived social support; perceived social support, in turn, was negatively associated with AI chatbot dependence. Mediation analyses indicated that loneliness significantly predicted AI chatbot dependence both directly and indirectly, with perceived social support partially mediating this relationship. The proposed model demonstrated an acceptable fit to the data. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that robust social support networks may function as a protective factor against emerging forms of AI chatbot dependence and highlight the importance of psychosocial interventions. Accordingly, coordinated efforts across universities, public institutions, local authorities, and mental health professionals are needed to develop evidence-based and sustainable interventions aimed at strengthening social connectedness and enhancing coping mechanisms for loneliness among young adults.