How Do Traditional Media Function in Social Learning about AI? Psychological and Cognitive Reactions to AI-Powered Communication

This exploratory study examines how young Japanese people’s emotion, risk-benefit perception, and interaction intention toward AI-powered communication robots are related to their media exposure. Analyses were based on data collected from a sample of 141 Japanese college students. Findings suggest that reading newspapers can foster positive emotion, which tends to be not only associated with higher perceived benefits and lower perceived risk but also have the potential to increase intentions to interact with AI-powered communication robots; however, watching television can contribute directly to reduced interaction intentions. Using Internet-based media seems to play no essential role in motivating changes in reactions. Findings of this study shed light on the public acceptance of AI technology and have practical implications for facilitating the application of AI technology in everyday life.