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Mitigated the impacts of GenAI on the autonomy of GenZ 
 
Final master's study that was based on understanding & mitigating the impacts of generative AI and digital footprint on the mental wellbeing of genZ.

Medium by Ashish Mangal

Received recognition from CMU

GenZ v/s GenAI.

Problem.

GenZ experiences escalating mental health concerns linked to excessive social media use and heightened anxieties surrounding data exploitation by Big Tech giants, particularly in the wake of Generative AI advancements. This confluence of factors necessitates urgent investigation and intervention to mitigate potential harm and safeguard the well-being of this vulnerable generation.


 

Solution.

Identified a link between genZ's passionate online engagement and declining mental resilience, potentially due to excessive use of addictive platforms. Studied the connection between immersive online activity and decreased ability to cope with challenges in genZ, suggesting a potential negative impact of addictive platforms. Unveiled how genZ's enthusiastic participation in online platforms might be associated with weakened mental resilience, raising concerns about the role of addictive design.

Outcome.

My project was recognized by Carnegie Mellon University and featured on their website. As a result, I was invited to present it to students at the prestigious McConomy Hall on campus. Earning recognition from Carnegie Mellon University, including publication on their website, led to the exciting opportunity to present my project to CMU students at McConomy Hall.

about

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AI is becoming increasingly sophisticated in social media, potentially predicting and manipulating users' experiences. Gen Z acknowledges mental health concerns related to social media but may not grasp the deeper implications of AI-driven manipulation. The piece warns of potential harms like information overload, weakened memory consolidation, and loss of autonomy. It calls for Gen Z to engage in critical reflection and discussion about the risks of AI in social media.

 

domain: ux research, innovation & design thinking

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type: course project

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duration: 4 months

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team: 1 person ( individual project )

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tools: surveys,interviews,literature reviews, analysis, value propositions analysis & figma                                                       

Introductory video | editing & voice over by Ashish Mangal

Illustration by Ashish Mangal

A visual map of my mind journey through the virtual landscape | illustration by Ashish Mangal

Imagine a world where algorithms predict GenZ's every move, crafting reality shows around their life - creepy, right? Not just a meme, AI in social media is getting real, and it might rewrite their future script.

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Think "Black Mirror" but scarier, like puppets dancing to their personalized feeds. This ain't about boomer warnings, it's about protecting GenZ's mental fortress from AI overlords.

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Sure, they could dodge cat filters, but can they handle an AI predicting their deepest desires and feeding them back in a dopamine drip? Is this the "real GenZ" or just an AI-crafted mirage?

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Let's talk before the lines blur. Read the research study, challenge the code, and rewrite your social media story. For if you are a GenZ or parent to one read this medium article.

Ashish Mangal during TedX  Style Talk

Watch TedX talk.

Based upon my research I prepared a TedX Talk for CMU students at McConomy Hall, CMU, Pittsburgh

Personal Logo of Ashish Mangal

© 2025, Ashish Mangal

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