(Photo by Rita Kurtz. Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian (L) and Rita Kurtz.

Consumer Electronics Show (CES), January 2020, Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Click link here to see quick video: DELTA: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning ).

Click link here to see the experience: DELTA Parallel Reality Display in Action

Me, Myself, & AIT–Artificial Intelligence Talkbots: Self-Talk and Emotional Self-Regulation with AI Talkbots and Parallel Reality Displays

By: Rita Kurtz

February17, 2023

I. Relational and social correlational research idea

            Me, Myself, & AIT–Artificial Intelligence

Talkbots: Self-Talk and Emotional Self-Regulation with AI Talkbots and Parallel Reality Displays

II. Background

            Talking to oneself, either internally or out loud, expresses a cognitive activity known as "self-talk." It serves as a helpful method for self-regulation in controlling feelings and dealing with stress. Affirming feelings, changing thought processes, and repetition of effective practices, offer impacts on mood and behavior (Junhyung et al., 2021, p. 1), and even the capacity to share "distressing experiences with others" through better psychological means of "talking it out" (Levi-Belz & Lev-Ari (2019). In researching the importance of self-talk, integrating external methodologies to "talk through" issues strikes an interest to explore additional, relational efforts concerning mental health. This study explores integrating the use of Artificial Intelligence Talkbots (AIT) or "chatbots" and Parallel Reality screens in public settings, proffering additional support of self-talk and communication.

            Artificial Intelligence (AI) hears verbalization during communication via phone call, or through personal intelligence assistance like Siri, Alexa, or Google Play. Researchers conducted studies in support of chatbots that are programmed to communicate with human users who struggle with mental health by engaging products such as Wysa, a mobile well-being app (Inkster et al., 2018). Talkbots use a computer software program replicating human communication. Talkbots can be downloaded on smartphones, computers, tablets, and the like. For example, a recent study determined the effectiveness of a wellness App powered by AI. The study measured the well-being of staff, students, and faculty at a university using Ajivar– an AI-powered life coach that improved low emotional intelligence (EI) due to stress (Sturgill et al., 2021, p. 2). Ajivar offers a chat session for each individual that downloads the App on their smart device. The study concluded unlimited potential for mental health and positive results using AI applications (Sturgill et al., 2021, p.6). Comparatively, a unique, open approach to integrating AIT and self-talk could be the use of a public-based technology called a Parallel Reality display–a futuristic public, yet private screen, that allows an individual, with their naked eye, see different information pertaining to different individuals standing in front of the display screen (Dietz & Lathrop, 2019, p.1). The public Parallel Reality displays, which remain unique because of their built-in privacy feature, could be in malls, restaurants, and many other public settings.

Integrating AI, self-care, and Parallel Reality displays could address handling stress better in public spaces. As of January of 2020, Delta Air Lines partnered with Misapplied Science and launched the beginning of Parallel Reality displays in the Detroit Metropolitan Airport (Kurtz, 2020). The Parallel Reality display experience allows passengers to view their own private flight information without others around seeing or hearing the information displayed. The Parallel Reality display could make its way publicly, allowing for a new type of "shared experience" where the public "can simultaneously target personalized content to each (specific) viewer, without specialized goggles (Dietz & Lathrop, 2019, p.1). Just like the display used by Delta, each public location, i.e., the mall, airport, grocery store, and any other public location, could offer Parallel Reality screens to interact openly with AI. In using this "hands-on" or "virtual hands-on" in this case, experience could alleviate stress in a public environment. Having Parallel Reality displays in several public spaces could make self-care and self-regulation methods more readily available in public spaces. The public, yet private display can communicate, at their discretion, with an AI-powered information system to help them talk through their struggle.

 The importance of communication, especially under stress, supports the need for social relationships. According to a study by Ozbay et al. (2007), social support access needs to be readily accessible to an individual through social relationships with other individuals, groups, and the greater community. Although self-talk can improve stress on one level in self-regulation, social support using AIT during stress deems worthy of investigation. However, little information exists regarding the relationship between self-talk with AI chatbots, or the relationship between self-talk and Parallel Reality displays including their ability to provide full emotional support.

III. Research Questions

            Is there a correlation between the self-talk of AI talkbots and their ability to provide the necessary emotional support, especially in a public environment? As Ozbay et al. (2017) stated, the importance of accessibility of communication and psychological resilience to stress needs further investigation, which could support the idea of public Parallel Reality screens. Conversely, would it appear odd to talk to a screen up in the air at an airport, the mall, or a restaurant? Communicating publicly with a mental health AIT through a large Parallel Reality display sounds like a futuristic sci-fi movie, but technically, this practice happens when ordering fast food at a drive-thru. However, what about feeding the mental state that hungers for adapting to life's adversities in coping with naturalistic stress? Moreover, should we be able to speak to an AI-powered Parallel Reality display publicly to express angst, or frustration on the spot? Will it alleviate stress or perhaps exacerbate the issue because there could be an audience watching as one "hashes out" the issue with the assigned AIT?

IV. Hypothesis

            AI talkbots that engage with an individual during self-talk will be positively associated with their ability to provide positive emotional support and encourage better self-regulation. Furthermore, AI talkbots in a public environment using a Parallel Reality screen could offer some emotional support during naturalistic stress in public.

V. Variables

            The independent variable is the self-talk of AI chatbots, while the dependent variable is the ability of AI talkbots to provide emotional support.

VI. Methodology

            A public environment experiment could be conducted in this study. Quasi-experimental research methodologies could investigate the impact of AI talkbots on naturalistic stress reduction in public environments, such as a busy subway. Recording information before and after the experience, capturing participants feelings, could be measured to see how the AI talkbot and Parallel Reality displays affected their stress levels.

            To record participants stress levels, the 5-point scale Wellness Test Inventory questionnaire of 100 questions will be implemented with questions regarding self-care, social awareness, values, and other assessments (Owen, 1999). Participants will be asked to complete both pretest and posttest questionnaires measuring their perceptions of the emotional support offered by AI chatbots. Just as the Ajivar study uses Alexa and Google Play (Sturgill et al., 202, p. 3), participants would have to interacted with AI talkbots and will be recruited for the study. The environment would have to support Parallel Reality screens connected with AI talkbots in various public areas to support the hypothesis. The collected data from the pretest and posttest questionnaire will be evaluated by means of correlation and regression analysis via App based technologies.

VII. Significance

            This study will provide insight in the connection between AI chatbots' connection to self-talk and the capacity to give emotional support through App based programs. It will also aid in connecting whether Parallel Reality displays offer support for the self-talk theory. The study's findings can be utilized to enhance the design and development of AI talkbots displayed on Parallel Reality screens so that they give appropriate emotional support to humans. This research may also be used to develop policies regarding privacy and well-being, that promote the use of artificial intelligence talkbots in mental health and emotional support services. The paucity of information makes this study a groundbreaking experiment.

VIII. Conclusion

            Whether one views this study as a dystopian society where man has completely dismantled the connectedness of humankind, or a utopian society of utter bliss, the safety and welfare of humankind must be at the forefront. Mental health, whether through self-regulation, self-talk, AI, or through the display of the Parallel Reality, communication is needed to navigate these uncertain anomalies.  

            AI just arrived and will make both subtle and abrupt changes to the medical field, education system, and anthropological endeavors, and will make life even more interesting. Although AI can be expressive and helpful in several ways, AI isn't sentient, omniscient, nor is it omnipotent, although it tries to present as such. These technologies will never overcome God's creative power; therefore, we must remember who is in control. The Holy Bible proclaims in Isaiah 55: 8-9 "'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,' declares the LORD. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts"" (New American Standard Bible, 1960/2021). God is the one in control, even if AI "thinks" it can take over.

Key words: Artificial Intelligence, Chatbots, Talkbots, Parallel Reality, Display

Rita Kurtz (PhD student) is a recent graduate of Harvard University with a master's degree from the Faculty of Arts & Sciences department. While at Harvard University, Rita took part in several projects, including a research study at the Langer Mindfulness Lab in the Department of Psychology which delved into the psychological effects of how news mediums impact the consumption and conveyance of news to the public. In writing in the sciences, she researched and wrote two research papers and presented them in front of fellow scientists. The first paper researched Nutraceutical Skin Therapy: Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ganoderma lucidum, a study on how mushrooms may support youthful skin and aid in patients suffering from the autoimmune disease, sarcoidosis. The second delved into extensive research on Meat Analogues: Are We Making a Positive Political Advancement to Save the Planet? Or A Personal Health Choice that Barely Sustains Ourselves?  which uncovered the unnatural ingredients masked in meatless burgers from Beyond Meat and Impossible Burger. 

Her interdisciplinary studies in law, anthropology and philosophy, makes her a well-rounded candidate. Her past academia undergraduate studies covered a gamut of disciplines including writing legal briefs and law courses in Constitutional Law, Business Law I &II, Torts, Corporate Finance, Business Policy, Economics, Chemistry, Chemistry Lab, and Consumer Behavior. She became a published nonfiction writer and a certified digital storyteller while at Harvard. 

Rita was formerly a Government Account Executive supplying computer networks to the U.S. military around the globe creating relationships between the civilian sector and the government. She has also worked as a Record-Breaking Technical Recruiter, placing C-level executives in major tech companies and start-ups. Her well roundedness and entrepreneurial mindset led her to running a successful bakery at the Department of Defense (DoD) Air Force Exchange. 

Rita is a digital creator, with some experience with Python Programming language. She stays current on mainstream topics as a blogger, social media influencer, and actress/entertainer. She divides her time between speaking, performing, and engaging in television, radio, and stage productions. She has covered tech news and innovations as a repeat spokesperson at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), MacWorld, and for Belkin Components. Her acting appearances aired on Lifetime, History Channel, Fox, and the Paramount Network, landing her on an Emmy-nominated show. Her experience in media, led to a career in television, radio, movies, and writing. As a prior executive producer, TV and radio host of a positive side of sports, life and entertainment variety show, her co-hosts included NFL players and Professionals. The show broadcasted on Warner Brothers Television and Fox. Her position led to interviews with billionaires, millionaires, celebrities, professional athletes, NASCAR drivers, professional medical staff, professional attorneys, musicians, and business owners. As a headline lead singer, she has toured with Grammy-Award winning musicians, and performed the national anthem for several professional sports teams around the country. Rita is a strong writer, researcher, listener, articulate speaker, and takes direction well. She is most recognized for the TV commercial in which she belted opera on a bus with a guy dressed like a Scandinavian viking-(877-CASHNOW).

Currently pursuing her Doctor of Philosophy degree in Division 1 General Psychology with a Christian lens, hones her past skill set as a Christian Youth Group Counselor and a contracted DoD Choir Director. Her current research interests include artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), law, ethics, morals, bioethics, aviation, military affairs, divinity and diversity. Her postgraduate studies at Liberty University allows her to research, analyze, test, generate new data, and the application of statistical and analytical data. Setting academic theories in psychology with a Christian worldview, opens deeper theories into more professional values, morals, ethics, behaviors, attitudes, justices, theoretical modeling, evidence-based modeling, culturally diversity standardization, leadership in trends, concepts, and methods. She is currently studying neuroscience, cognitive psychology, social-personality psychology, neurotheology, law, and statistics. Her main focus lies in self-regulation in the discipline of Health Psychology from a holistic-mind, body, spirit, and soul approach.

She is a current member of the American Psychological Association (APA), American Psychology-Law Society (AP-LS), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), American Federation of Musicians (AFM), Christian Association for Psychological Studies (CAPS), Harvard Black Alumni Society (HBAS), Harvard Club of NY, Harvard Club of Southern California, and the Harvard Alumni Association. She currently resides in Beverly Hills, California. Her faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation for her life.

Awards: 

• As of February 2023: SMARTscholarship 2023 semi-finalist.
• Harvard HGSE/HDS Academic Scholarship Award 2021 in Law, Politics, Economics, Ethics, American Democracy, and Religiosity––Dr. Cornell West and Professor Roberto Mangabeira Unger, S.J.D.
• Top 20 List on Talking Writer 2020
• SEFMD Science and Engineering Award in Microbiology,( First place and second place)

References

Dietz, P. & Lathrop, M. (2019). Adaptive environments with parallel reality tm displays. 1-2. 10.1145/3306307.3328153.

Inkster, B., Sarda, S., & Subramanian, V. (2018). An empathy-driven, conversational artificial intelligence agent (wysa) for digital mental well-being: real-world data evaluation mixed-methods study. JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 6(11), e12106. https://doi.org/10.2196/12106

Junhyung, K., Kwon, J. H., Kim, J., Kim, E. J., Kim, H. E., Sunghyon, K., & Jae-Jin, K. (2021). The effects of positive or negative self-talk on the alteration of brain functional connectivity by performing cognitive tasks. Scientific Reports (Nature Publisher Group), 11(1) https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-94328-9

Kim, J., Kwon, J.H., Kim, J. (2021). The effects of positive or negative self-talk on the alteration of brain functional connectivity by performing cognitive tasks. Scientific Reports 11, 14873. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-94328-9

Kurtz, R.  [@iamritaritarita]. (2021, January 11). Employing artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve a peaceful travel experience, delta air lines partnership with misapplied sciences plans on launching the first-ever. [video]. Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/p/B7MqQ6OHFMK/?hl=en

Levi-Belz, Y., & Lev-Ari, L. (2019). "Let's Talk About It": The moderating role of self-disclosure on complicated grief over time among suicide survivors. international journal of environmental research and public health, 16(19), 3740. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16193740

New American Standard Bible. (2021). Zondervan. (Original work published 1960)

Owen T. R. (1999). The reliability and validity of a wellness inventory. American journal of health promotion: AJHP, 13(3), 180–182. https://doi.org/10.4278/0890-1171-13.3.180

Ozbay, F., Johnson, D. C., Dimoulas, E., Morgan, C. A., Charney, D., & Southwick, S. (2007). Social support and resilience to stress: from neurobiology to clinical practice. Psychiatry (Edgmont (Pa.: Township)), 4(5), 35–40.

Pantoja, A. J. [@tallguytycoon]. (2023, February 22). Is this going too far. thoughts?. [video]. Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/reel/Co6PNGmgDvK/?igshid=MjkzY2Y1YTY= 

Sturgill, R., Martinasek, M., Schmidt, T., & Goyal, R. (2021). A novel artificial intelligence-powered emotional intelligence and mindfulness app (ajivar) for the college student population during the COVID-19 pandemic: quantitative questionnaire study. JMIR formative research, 5(1), e25372. https://doi.org/10.2196/25372

Author Note

Rita L. Kurtz- https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4456-7784

No conflict of interest to disclose.

Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to harvarduniversity.ritakurtz@gmail.com

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