Psychosis Risk and Generative Artificial Intelligence Use Frequency, Motivations, and Delusion-Like Experiences: Cross-Sectional Survey Study

BACKGROUND: Growth of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has exploded in recent years. Many have noted its substantial potential to increase access to scalable digital mental health interventions or provide companions for individuals who are socially isolated. At the same time, seeking mental health support from mainstream GenAI models may involve risks. Several recent examples of exacerbation of delusions have received attention in the popular press, leading to a call for empirical research to document the scope of interactions with GenAI among individuals experiencing symptoms of psychosis. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate associations of psychosis risk to GenAI use frequency, motivations for use, and GenAI interactions involving potential delusions. METHODS: We conducted a large-scale cross-sectional survey of 1003 young adults in United States, divided the sample of individuals that had used GenAI into "elevated risk" (Prodromal Questionnaire, Brief Version Distress Score ≥20; N=267, 28%) and "low risk" groups (Prodromal Questionnaire, Brief Version Distress Score