Examining the Effects of Flow Experience and Social Support on AI Companionship
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19360529Anahtar Kelimeler:
Yapay zeka arkadaşlığı, akış deneyimi, sosyal destek, yapay zeka ile sohbetÖzet
This research examines the existence and predecessors of “AI companionship” which has emerged with the increasing use of AI applications not only for functional purposes but also for emotional and relational purposes. The main objective of the study is to determine the effect of perceived social support and experienced flow on users’ friendship like conversational behaviours with AI. Data was collected from 301 individuals between November 27 and December 12, 2025, using convenience sampling and online survey methods, and analysed using SPSS software. The analysis of the collected data reveal that AI social support, traditionally derived from humans and signifying stress reduction, relaxation, or a feeling of well-being, and the flow experience, signifying enjoyment and immersion while chatting with AI, are significant variables in AI companionship. It was also found that 22.3% of participants chatted with artificial intelligence at least a few times a month. Furthermore, differences in research variables based on key characteristics were examined. Finally, the research findings were interpreted, and recommendations were developed for researches.
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