The Psychological Impact of Artificial Intelligence Misuse on Victims’ Mental Health

The growing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into everyday life has raised significant concerns regarding its psychological and social implications. This study examines the impact of AI misuse on the mental health of individuals victimized through AI-powered technologies, including deepfakes, AI-generated harassment, and algorithmic bias. Employing a mixed-methods approach that combines a self-developed online survey with the standardized Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-42; Lovibond & Lovibond, 1995), the research investigates the psychological outcomes of AI victimization—specifically symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and loss of trust. A total of 120 participants (60 males and 60 females) from the Delhi-NCR region participated in the study. Findings revealed a significant relationship between the misuse of AI technologies and adverse mental health outcomes. Additionally, gender differences emerged in the experience and psychological impact of AI misuse. The results underscore the urgent need for ethical AI regulation, digital literacy, and mental health interventions to mitigate the psychological harm associated with AI-driven victimization