Scoping Review - AI problematic use

This project preregisters a scoping review protocol on problematic AI use in everyday-life engagement with conversational AI (chatbots, LLM-based assistants, and companion chatbots). The literature is rapidly expanding but conceptually fragmented, using heterogeneous labels (e.g., addiction-like use, compulsive/excessive use, dependence-like engagement, overreliance, reduced autonomy) and diverse measurement strategies. Following PRISMA-ScR guidance and established scoping review frameworks, we will map how problematic AI use is defined and operationalized, which study designs and instruments are used, and which antecedents (psychological, motivational, social, contextual, technological) and consequences (well-being, functioning, cognition, social outcomes) are examined. Searches were conducted in Scopus and Web of Science (English; 2021–2025), complemented by backward citation searching. Screening and data charting will be piloted/calibrated, and all materials (search strings, screening logs, charting form, and extracted dataset) will be shared on OSF to support transparency and reproducibility.