Open Access

ARTICLE

The Relationship between Relative Deprivation and Generative AI Dependency among College Students: A Variable-Centered and Person-Centered Approach

Yihong Wang^1,2, Baojuan Ye^3,*, Jing Xu⁴, Ting Chen², Xing Zhang⁵, Jin Xie⁶, Qi Dai³

1 School of Education, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, China
2 Centre for Psychological Education, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, China
3 Center of Mental Health Education and Research, School of Psychology, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, China
4 School of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, China
5 Graduate School, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Suzhou, China
6 Center for Mental Health Service, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, China

* Corresponding Authors: Baojuan Ye. Email: ,

International Journal of Mental Health Promotion 2026, 28(8), 3 https://doi.org/10.32604/ijmhp.2026.083405

Received 03 April 2026; Accepted 18 June 2026; Issue published 31 August 2026

Abstract

Backgrounds: As an increasing number of college students rely on Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI) in academic work and social interaction, concerns about its potential negative effects have emerged. This study aims to address this gap by examining the relationship between relative deprivation and Gen AI dependency among college students. Methods: This study included 1583 college students. Four validated instruments were employed: the Relative Deprivation Scale, Psychological Entitlement Scale, Self-Handicapping Scale, and Artificial Intelligence Chatbot Dependence Scale. Bivariate correlation analysis, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) for testing mediation, Latent Profile Analysis (LPA), and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were conducted. Results: Research has found a significant association between relative deprivation and Gen AI dependency. Psychological entitlement and self-handicapping each showed significant indirect effects, with effect sizes of 0.044 and 0.146, respectively. Additionally, the serial indirect effect of these two factors was significant, with an indirect effect of 0.028. LPA based on relative deprivation and Gen AI dependency identified three profiles: the low, moderate, and high co-occurrence levels. Students in different profiles exhibited statistically significant differences in their traits. Conclusions: This study uses variable- and person-centered analyses to examine the association between relative deprivation and Gen AI dependency, as well as related associations with psychological entitlement and self-handicapping. It provides initial theoretical support for rational Gen AI use.

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