Tang, P. M., Koopman, J., Mai, K. M., De Cremer, D., Zhang, J. H., Reynders, P., Ng, C. T. S., & Chen, I-H. (2023). No person is an island: Unpacking the work and after-work consequences of interacting with artificial intelligence. Journal of Applied Psychology.   Vol. 108, 11, (Nov 2023): 1766-1789. https://doi.org/10.1037/apl0001103 Artificial Intelligence (AI) has reached far into our work lives and rapidly transformed the way we work and interact by performing tasks previously done by teams of people. AI brings more than efficiency—it alters our human connection and impacts our emotional well-being. Psychologists in the Departments of Management in Taiwan, Indonesia, the United States, and Malaysia conducted several studies, including surveys, field experiments, and simulations with nearly 800 employees, shedding light on this AI transformation. A critical takeaway of their research was that the more we rely on AI, the more we feel loneliness and the need to foster our workplace human connections. AI, while powerful and intelligent, falls short of providing the deeply engaging and emotionally fulfilling social experience that humans inherently seek. This isolation contributes to more insomnia and alcoholism; thus, initiating outreach to coworkers is essential. AI cannot replace authentic social bonds. As you navigate the landscape of AI integration, understand how it may affect your well-being and social interactions. Reach out to others, support others coming together, help each other in need, and seek out meaningful human connections—be friendly, warm, and welcoming.

Written by Jarret Bain B.S.