Artificial intelligence (AI) sparks diverse opinions on its benefits and consequences. How people feel about the use of AI can vary across personality traits, including individuals with higher levels of neuroticism being more likely to endorse more strict regulation of AI (Bartneck et al., 2023). Additionally, individuals in different age cohorts also reported varying emotional impacts related to AI use, including older adults being more likely to endorse negative attitudes towards AI than younger cohorts (Stein et al., 2024). This study examines how perceptions of AI vary across personality traits and generational cohorts.
A total of 250 participants aged 18 and older will complete an online survey. Participants will complete questions related to their demographic variables, their knowledge, opinions, and emotions about AI, alongside the BFI-10 (Rammstedt & John, 2007) to assess Big Five personality traits.
Pearson correlations will examine the relationships between age cohorts, negative emotions toward AI, and personality traits. A multiple linear regression will assess how neuroticism and age predict negative attitudes toward AI, with negative emotions serving as the dependent variable. It is hypothesized that older adults with higher levels of neuroticism will report more negative attitudes and emotions toward AI.
Understanding how AI impacts society is critical. Results obtained from this research can inform how various age cohorts may impact individuals connection and understanding of AI. Strategies such as AI literacy and education can support and promote a better understanding of AI's role in society and how individuals determine its role and interactions.