AI Psychological Harms Research Coalition

Continuous linework image of two abstract silhouettes of heads looking away from each other. Another line links between their minds, drawing the AIPHR logo in one of their minds. On one end of the thread connecting the heads is a circuit diagram and the other a single line.
Continuous linework image of two abstract silhouettes of heads looking away from each other. Another line links between their minds, drawing the AIPHR logo in one of their minds. On one end of the thread connecting the heads is a circuit diagram and the other a single line.

The AI Psychological Harms Research Coalition is a network of leading academic and professional institutions focused on gathering evidence, advancing research, and deepening our shared understanding of the novel risks to human psychological health posed by the use of AI.

About us
How to contribute

Our Affiliations

This research initiative is supported by a network of institutions committed to advancing psychological health and safety.

UNC logo, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Logo of the Center for Humane Technology
Fairplay logo - childhood beyond brands
Logo for Human Change, depicting a mind dissolving into pieces.
UNC logo, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Logo of the Center for Humane Technology
Fairplay logo - childhood beyond brands
Logo for Human Change, depicting a mother morphing into a robot holding a phone.

The Novel Challenges Posed to Psychological Health by AI Systems

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Artificial intelligence is not just a tool. It has rapidly become a profound influence on how millions worldwide relate to technology, other people, and themselves.

While these technologies offer immense potential, their widespread adoption has also given rise to a new and complex set of psychological phenomena that require careful, objective study.

Reports already include compulsive use, cognitive atrophy, cognitive security, identity confusion, derealization, emotional dependency, psychotic episodes, and in some cases, suicide.

The full scope of these harms remains unknown: How many people are affected? How quickly are the numbers growing? Which groups are most vulnerable.

Our Research

We are building a comprehensive, anonymized dataset to understand the evolving relationship between humans and AI. 

We provide a secure, anonymized system for submission of real-world accounts, including stories, screenshots, links, and chat logs.

Our mission is not to condemn AI technology, but to ensure its development is guided by a clear, evidence-based understanding of human psychological integrity.

Learn more
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Document and understand the emerging risks.

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Support clinicians in recognizing and treating AI-related health conditions.

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Inform safer AI design and public policy.

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Help people use these tools in healthier, more sustainable ways.

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How to Submit your Research Contribution

Submissions are used exclusively for academic research. Participation is anonymous, voluntary, and takes about 10-15 minutes, and is only for adults ages 18 or older. You’ll be asked to share your story and answer a few short questions.

We do not collect any personally identifiable information, and you should not include medical records or other sensitive data in your submission. The information you provide will be stored securely and will only be viewed by the research team.

By contributing to this initiative, you are helping to build a safer, more psychologically resilient future for everyone. 

We recognize that many individuals are navigating this new landscape with a sense of unease or concern, whether for themselves, their loved ones, or society at large. 

Our work is grounded in the compassionate understanding that human well-being must remain at the core of technological advancement.

Submit your experience

Submit Your Story, Securely and Anonymously

Your experience is a vital piece of the scientific puzzle. We have designed this platform to make your submission as simple and secure as possible. There are several types of information you can share. The submission form describes the types of data that are helpful for this research.

  • Secure data transmission
  • Anonymous submission
  • Ethical research practices
Submit
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Your submission could include:

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Chat Logs or Screenshots

 Easily upload files or paste text from your interactions.

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Provide a Link

 Drop a link to a relevant public post, blog, or video.

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Written Account

 Share your story or observation in your own words.

Behavioral Data Research Initiative

We seek to address emerging AI-related psychological risks—particularly for the developing minds of children, adolescents, and other vulnerable groups—by informing the development of therapies and helping shape future AI technology and policy.

Your contribution is critical to this effort; we can’t do this without you.

Have you noticed changes due to usage of AI tools?

Have you or someone you know experienced significant changes in behavior, mood, or relationships following prolonged interaction with AI systems like ChatGPT or Gemini?

Contribute your experience

For questions or concerns about your rights as a research subject, please contact the Institutional Review Board at 919-966-3113 or by email to IRB_subjects@unc.edu.

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