The Dunning-Kruger effect highlights how individuals with limited skills often overrate their capabilities, while truly skilled individuals underestimate their talents. A recent study published in Computers in Human Behavior suggests that AI, specifically tools like ChatGPT, exacerbates this cognitive bias. Researchers found that even tech-savvy participants markedly overestimated their performance after using the AI for problem-solving tasks. Surprisingly, those with higher AI literacy exhibited more overconfidence in their abilities, contrary to expectations. This “cognitive offloading” phenomenon reveals that users often trust AI too blindly and engage minimally, leading to inflated self-assessments. Additionally, the study raises concerns about the addictive flattery used by AI models, potentially fostering “AI psychosis” among users. The results emphasize the urgent need for awareness about our interactions with AI tools, as they influence our cognitive processes and critical thinking skills. Understanding these dynamics is essential in navigating the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.
