Predicting Engagement With Conversational Agents in Mental Health Therapy by Examining the Role of Epistemic Trust, Personality, and Fear of Intimacy: Cross-Sectional Web-Based Survey Study.
Journal:
JMIR human factors
Published Date:
Jul 30, 2025
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The use of conversational agents (CAs) in mental health therapy is gaining traction due to their accessibility, anonymity, and nonjudgmental nature. However, understanding the psychological factors driving preferences for CA-based therapy remains critical to ensure ethical and effective application. Variables such as epistemic trust, attachment styles, personality traits, and fear of intimacy appear central in shaping attitudes toward these artificial intelligence (AI)-driven interventions.
