Overview

• Researchers at Waseda University developed the Experiences in Human-AI Relationships Scale (EHARS) to assess users’ psychological ties to AI.
• The scale underwent two pilot studies and formal validation published May 9 in Current Psychology confirming its reliability and validity.
• Analysis identified two key attachment dimensions—anxiety, characterized by need for reassurance, and avoidance, marked by preference for emotional distance.
• Survey data showed nearly 75% of participants turned to AI for advice and about 39% perceived such systems as a dependable presence.
• Researchers suggest leveraging EHARS insights to tailor AI companion designs for mental health support and to prevent emotional overdependence.