These personality types are most likely to cheat using AI

As recent graduates proudly showcase their use of ChatGPT for final projects, some may wonder: What kind of person turns to AI to cheat on college assignments? A new study may shed some light.

The paper, published in the journal BMC Psychology by Jinyi Song of South Korea’s Chodang University and Shuyan Liu of Baekseok University, surveyed 504 college-level Chinese art students. Researchers assessed traits like narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism, all of which are collectively known as the “Dark Triad.” They found that students who scored highly on these traits were significantly more likely to use AI tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney to complete their assignments.

Why? According to PsyPost, narcissists may cheat to bolster their self-image or gain recognition, while those high in Machiavellianism may view AI as a way to gain an edge over their peers. Psychopathy, meanwhile, is associated with impulsivity and a lack of remorse.

The study also found that students with higher dark trait scores were more likely to pass off AI-generated work as their own. These same students were more anxious about academic performance and more prone to procrastination—factors that made them more likely to rely on AI to finish their assignments.

Researchers also examined materialism. Students who scored higher in materialistic values, or who were driven by external rewards and praise, were similarly more likely to misuse AI.

While those surveyed face a perfect storm of competition, pressure to produce original creative work, and the increasing presence of generative AI in their field, the ChatGPT dilemma now extends across creative industries, academia, and beyond.

Thanks to artificial intelligence, the temptation to turn to AI—whether for homework or even just writing a text—has never been more pervasive. Next time you reach for ChatGPT, consider what it might reveal about you.