The Dark Side of Conversational AI: Chatgpt Frequency, Technostress, and WHO-5 Well-Being

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Source of Publication

2026 17th International Conference on E Education E Business E Management and E Learning Ic4e 2026

Publication Date

4-1-2026

Abstract

The rapid rise of conversational AI technologies like ChatGPT has revolutionized how students approach academic tasks. Nonetheless, we have not yet attained a comprehensive knowledge of the psychological effects of consistently employing these technologies. This study examines the prevalence of ChatGPT usage among university students in the United Arab Emirates and its impact on their technostress and mental well-being. Employing Technostress Theory and the WHO-5 Well-Being framework, we conducted a quantitative survey of 288 students and analyzed the findings using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results indicate that regular utilization of ChatGPT correlates with increased technostress and demonstrates a direct association with mental well-being. Simultaneously, technostress exerts a significant adverse effect on well-being. This indicates that AI systems can serve as beneficial educational resources while also being sources of psychological strain. These findings underscore the ambivalent position of generative AI in higher education. This demonstrates the necessity for schools to deliver training on AI utilization, establish guidelines, and give support for students. This can facilitate the healthy and sustainable utilization of conversational AI in academic environments.

ISBN

[9798331581862]

Publisher

IEEE

First Page

682

Last Page

687

Disciplines

Computer Sciences

Keywords

ChatGPT, Generative AI Usage, Mental Well-Being, Technostress, WHO-5 Index

Scopus ID

105048948968

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

no

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS