Let AI Decide for Me? Decision Autonomy and Emotional Response in Tragic Medical Scenarios

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly used in healthcare, but people often resist it. Notably, the impact of medical AI decisions on consumers’ post-experiences and long-term well-being remains largely unknown. The present research investigates people’s adoption intention toward medical AI and how AI decisions influence individuals’ emotional response in tragic medical scenarios. Across four studies, we found that individuals demonstrated AI appreciation, expressing a lower desire for decision-making autonomy and a preference for doctors or AI make the decision (Studies 1–4). Moreover, whether the tragic medical decision involved continuing treatment (Study 2) or withdrawing treatment (Study 3), AI decision-making could alleviate individuals’ negative emotions, particularly guilt. In addition, doctor–AI collaborative decision-making not only enhanced individuals’ confidence in tragic medical decision-making but also proved more effective in reducing negative emotions (Study 4). Finally, we discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings and suggest avenues for future research.