A recent study has revealed a compelling link between positive attitudes toward artificial intelligence (AI) and a greater susceptibility to problematic social media use, raising important questions for Thai society as digital technologies increasingly permeate daily life. This new research could reshape how educators, parents, and policymakers approach digital literacy and mental health in Thailand, especially as the nation rapidly adopts AI-driven platforms and social networks.
As Thailand continues to embrace digital transformation, both in private life and public policy, the question of how technology shapes human behavior is becoming more pressing. According to the study reported in PsyPost, researchers found that individuals with a more favorable view of AI technologies are more likely to develop patterns of social media use that may border on problematic or even addictive. This finding holds significance for a country like Thailand, noted for its high exposure to social media—recent surveys indicate that over 52 million Thais use social platforms, with many spending upwards of three hours per day online (DataReportal Thailand Report).
The study, rooted in psychological survey research, indicates that enthusiasm for AI does not simply lead to increased usage of AI-driven tools, but is also associated with less regulated, potentially harmful patterns of engagement on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and new chat-based services. Problematic social media use can encompass compulsive checking, difficulty disengaging, and negative impacts on daily functioning—a reality clearly echoed in Thai urban centers, where youth and adults alike often find themselves glued to their screens.
Crucially, the researchers suggest that positive attitudes toward AI may lower users’ natural skepticism or caution, making them more receptive to recommendation algorithms and AI-generated content which, in turn, can drive excessive engagement and social media dependency. “As AI becomes richer and more persuasive in customizing content, those who see it in a positive light may find it harder to exercise self-restraint,” explained a psychologist involved in the study, as quoted by PsyPost. This is particularly relevant in Thailand, where AI-powered features—ranging from TikTok’s viral video feeds to personalized advertising—are increasingly tailored to user preferences, often with little public awareness of the mechanisms underlying them.
Implications for Thailand are broad. Mental health experts at leading universities and government agencies have long warned of a surge in digital addiction, with the Ministry of Public Health highlighting growing concerns about children and adolescents’ online habits (Department of Mental Health, Thailand). With AI use now spreading rapidly in education, entertainment, and commerce, society must grapple with new forms of digital influence that can be both powerful and subtle. A university-based researcher in digital psychology noted, “It’s not just about screen time anymore—the personalization and engagement strategies powered by AI make it much easier to lose control.”
These insights arrive at a time when the Thai government is pushing for greater integration of AI in public services and education, recently announcing strategies for digital upskilling and AI curriculum in schools (Thai Digital Economy and Society Ministry). While these efforts are intended to boost competitiveness and modernize the workforce, the new research raises an important caveat: digital literacy efforts must go hand-in-hand with education about healthy media consumption. This is especially vital in Thai culture, where traditional values of self-control and mindfulness sometimes clash with the fast-paced allure of modern digital platforms.
Historically, Thailand has responded to earlier waves of technological disruption, such as the spread of smartphones, with a mixture of enthusiasm and concern. Buddhist concepts of moderation and awareness have often been invoked in public health campaigns to counteract addictive behaviors, from gambling to gaming. The challenge now lies in updating these messages for an era where AI not only amplifies content but personalizes it with uncanny accuracy. The risk, as the research suggests, is that those with uncritical enthusiasm for AI—often young, tech-savvy Thais—may be the most vulnerable to the hidden pitfalls of digital overuse.
Looking forward, the findings underscore the need for evidence-based interventions and robust conversation between educators, policymakers, and technology companies. There is potential for AI itself to play a role in mitigating harm—for example, through personalized digital well-being alerts or parental controls that are sensitive to individual behavioral patterns. At the same time, experts warn that technical solutions must be accompanied by critical thinking and awareness campaigns, with clear guidance from teachers, families, and community leaders.
For Thai readers, the takeaways are clear: adopt new technologies mindfully, and recognize that a positive attitude toward innovation must be balanced with a critical understanding of its risks. Parents and educators should engage youth in open discussions about both the benefits and the risks of AI-powered platforms, encouraging reflective media habits. Policymakers are urged to support digital health initiatives, fund ongoing research, and require platforms to increase transparency about how AI shapes user behavior—a call echoed by international organizations such as UNESCO (UNESCO Digital Literacy).
As Thailand’s digital landscape continues to evolve, this research invites all sectors to reflect on how best to harness the promise of AI without falling prey to its unintended consequences. By staying informed, cultivating self-awareness, and fostering open dialogue, Thai society can chart a balanced path through the complexities of the digital age.