Designing AI as a Digital Companion: Focusing on Regulatory Focus, Mirroring, and Emotional Contagion Theories

Abstract

This research proposes a model for designing AI as a Digital Companion, integrating psychological theories, specifically Regulatory Focus Theory (RFT), Mirroring Theory, and Emotional Contagion Theory. The study aims to adapt AI to users' emotional states and motivational orientations, enhancing human-AI interactions by fostering emotional connections and trust. A multi-stage experimental approach will be used to examine the impact of psychologically attuned AI on users’ emotional responses, attitudes, and behavior, and to empirically validate the AI model's effectiveness. The research contributes by presenting a novel AI development model based on psychological theories and demonstrating its real-world impact. Practical applications are expected in mental health, elderly care, education, and public service, with a focus on improving AI's societal impact by prioritizing psychological intelligence in AI design.