Human – AI Relationship: The Role of Personality Traits in Predicting AI Dependency and Subjective Well – Being among Emerging Adults

As artificial intelligence (AI) evolves from a purely technological aid to a personalized psychological companion, the role of individual differences in technology adoption becomes paramount for promoting long term subjective well-being. This research explores the relationship between the Five Factor Model of personality Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism and their influence on AI dependency and life satisfaction. By portraying AI as a reflection of the human psyche, the study bridges the gap in understanding how personal psychological characteristics act as buffers or enablers of technological dependency in the digital age. Using a quantitative cross-sectional method involving 100 students (aged 18–30) from various colleges in Uttar Pradesh, India, the study applied validated tools like the AI Dependency Scale and the Big Five Inventory-10. Findings indicate that personality factors play a vital role in determining the nature of human-AI interaction. Conscientiousness demonstrated a strong negative correlation with AI dependency, serving as a core component of digital health. Conversely, for those with high Neuroticism, AI functioned as a “psychological sanctuary,” offering a secure environment for trial and error without fear of judgment, which correlated positively with subjective well-being and negatively with dependency. This “Neuroticism Paradox” suggests that the future of technology lies in developing “personality aware” AI systems that offer personalized scaffolding for diverse psychological needs.