Dependence on Generative Artificial Intelligence Among Medical Students and Its Association With Critical Thinking: A Cross-Sectional Study

INTRODUCTION: Generative artificial intelligence (AI) (e.g., ChatGPT and Google Gemini) is exceptionally useful in the educational field for learning new concepts. However, besides its benefits, it also introduces the risk of pathological dependence on AI. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the prevalence of AI dependency and its association with critical thinking. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a government medical college in Tamil Nadu. The study population comprised undergraduate medical students. Data were collected using a structured digital questionnaire that consisted of validated Generative AI Dependency and Critical Thinking Disposition Assessment Questionnaire (CTDAQ-20) scales. Statistical analysis included non-parametric group comparisons, Spearman's rank correlation, and multiple linear regression. RESULTS: Among the 722 participants, the prevalence of Generative AI usage was 695 (96.3%). Among users (n=695), the median AI dependence score was 2.1 (IQR: 1.6-2.7), with males having higher dependence than females (p=0.019) and final-year students reporting higher dependence than students in other years (p