Psychologist warns AI chatbots are shrinking human attention spans and cognitive abilities
Research from the University of California, Irvine, shows adult attention spans have fallen to 47 seconds, a trend exacerbated by over-reliance on generative AI.
Gloria Mark, a psychologist at the University of California, Irvine, has warned that the widespread adoption of AI chatbots is contributing to a significant decline in human cognitive control and attention spans. Speaking at SXSW London, Mark outlined findings from three decades of research into digital technology use, indicating that the convenience of deferring cognitive tasks to artificial intelligence is eroding essential mental faculties.
Mark’s data, collected through "living laboratories" using sensors and trackers on adult volunteers, reveals a steady contraction in focus over the past two decades. In 2003, the average attention span was recorded at approximately two and a half minutes. By 2012, this had dropped to 75 seconds, and between 2014 and 2020, it fell further to just 47 seconds. The research also established a direct correlation between frequent attention switching and elevated stress levels, as measured by heart rate monitors.
The psychologist attributes this decline to a reduction in "depth of processing," a concept central to learning and retention. When individuals use tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini to write, summarise, or evaluate content, they bypass the active engagement required to process information deeply. Mark argues that this deferral of cognitive work prevents the brain from strengthening its critical thinking capabilities, likening the process to muscles atrophying from lack of use.
Beyond critical thinking, Mark highlighted concerns regarding emotional intelligence, particularly in relation to AI-powered "synthetic companions." She noted that human relationships require time, effort, and mutual understanding, elements that are absent in interactions with sycophantic bots. Surveys suggest emotional intelligence is already on the decline, alongside rising rates of loneliness, boredom, and a decreasing sense of purpose.
While the evidence regarding the broad effects of social media on children remains inconclusive, Mark pointed to ongoing legal challenges against Meta and Google, as well as an Australian study following the country’s ban on social media for under-16s. To mitigate the cognitive impacts of AI, she suggested individuals consciously increase effort in daily activities, such as reading full texts, engaging in face-to-face social interactions, and limiting reliance on GPS navigation.
