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Artificial intelligence companionship: conceptualization, dimension identification and scale development

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  • Shen, Pengyi
  • Peng, Dehui
  • Xu, Jinan

Abstract

With the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, AI companionship (AIC)—an emerging solution for alleviating loneliness and enhancing psychological resilience—is being deployed worldwide. However, the academic community still lacks a unified conceptualization and validated measurement instruments, making it challenging to explain the mechanisms underlying the benefits and risks of this technological paradigm. To address this gap, the present study conducted a qualitative thematic analysis of multi-source data and proposes a triadic framework that integrates empathic, instrumental, and social companionship. Following established scale-development procedures, we conducted exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, as well as robustness tests, to develop a 16-item scale demonstrating strong reliability and construct validity. Nomological validity tests further reveal that AIC positively influences users’ word-of-mouth and usage intentions. This research not only enriches the conceptualization, dimensional structure, and mechanisms of AIC, providing both a measurement tool and a theoretical foundation for future empirical work, but also offers managerial insights for firms to optimize the design, development, and marketing of AI companion products.

Suggested Citation

  • Shen, Pengyi & Peng, Dehui & Xu, Jinan, 2026. "Artificial intelligence companionship: conceptualization, dimension identification and scale development," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 215(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jbrese:v:215:y:2026:i:c:s0148296326003735
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jbusres.2026.116338
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