Artificial intelligence (AI) has given rise to a new phenomenon: AI-powered social media influencers. These computer-generated personalities, designed to appear flawless and lead picture-perfect lives, may have detrimental effects on the mental health of younger users, warns a technology strategist in an interview with Fox News.
Similar to their human counterparts, AI influencers utilize their platforms to promote brands and sell products. The main difference is that they are entirely virtual, lacking any authentic human element. Alexa Eden, founder of EDEN, an AI training consulting firm, stresses the potential harm these influencers can cause. She explains that young individuals exposed to these AI-created images of perfection may struggle to navigate real-world interactions and form unrealistic expectations about life and beauty standards.
Eden further emphasizes the issue, stating that these AI influencers possess an in-depth understanding of user preferences and utilize tactics to attract attention and engagement. This ability to manipulate viewers raises concerns about its impact on mental and emotional well-being.
Recently, Milla Sofia, an AI-generated influencer representing a fictional Finnish woman in her twenties, has garnered significant attention, amassing over 100,000 followers on TikTok and nearly 60,000 on Instagram.
The comments on Milla Sofia’s posts illustrate the growing admiration for these AI influencers. Users express infatuation, with one individual even suggesting a lunch meeting. Eden points out the long-term effects this admiration can have on young girls’ self-perception. She questions the introduction of such AI influencers into a world where immense efforts are being made to counter the negative impacts of airbrushing, photoshopping, and plastic surgery.
Eden explains that AI influencers tap into human psychology, projecting a perfected version of life from a marketing, psychological, and emotional standpoint. This seductive depiction of an idealized existence draws a significant audience. However, spending excessive time on popular social media platforms like Twitter, Snapchat, Facebook, and TikTok has been associated with mental health issues in teenagers, including depression, suicide, and anxiety, according to a report from the U.S. Surgeon General.
Meta, the parent company of Instagram, acknowledged the negative effects of its photo-sharing app on teen girls’ self-esteem. Internal documents obtained by The Wall Street Journal revealed that Instagram worsened body image issues for 32% of teenage girls who already felt dissatisfied with their bodies. The toxic impact of social media on young users has prompted a bipartisan group of senators to investigate Facebook, the company that owns Instagram.
Considering the potential consequences, Eden raises doubts about the long-term benefits of AI influencers. While they may boost business and capture viewers’ attention, their overall contribution to society’s well-being remains uncertain.
In conclusion, the rise of AI influencers presents a double-edged sword. While their visually appealing and seemingly perfect presence attracts followers and drives engagement, there are concerns about the negative impact on the mental health of younger users. As technologies like AI continue to evolve, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being and healthy development of individuals, particularly in the face of emerging challenges introduced by virtual influencers.
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