10 ways over-reliance on AI can affect cognitive abilities

By Rajeshwaari Kalla | August 19, 2025 | Image: Canva

Cognitive effects of AI reliance

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A study has found that over-reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) may affect cognitive abilities of students

Errors in decision-making

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This excessive reliance occurs when a user accepts the recommendations of AI without questioning it, thus leading to errors in decision-making

Lack of validation

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It has been concerning that users of artificial intelligence accept the generated output without thorough validation of the response

Decline in cognitive abilities

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It has also been found that regularly using artificial intelligence can cause a reduction in cognitive abilities

Memory retention issues

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The ability to retain information is also affected, and may decline with the over-use of artificial intelligence

Reduced motivation to learn

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As the reliance on artificial intelligence increases, there may be a reduction in the students’ drive to learn

Limited problem-solving

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Students may not actively participate  in problem-solving, or learning experiences, if they continue to  rely heavily on AI

Decline in critical thinking

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This over-reliance may also lead  to issues like a decline in critical  thinking and decision-making

Affected analytical thinking

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Analytical thinking abilities may also  be affected because of constantly  using AI for everything

Need for balanced use

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It is necessary to use artificial intelligence judiciously, and not let  it take over cognitive abilities

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