Psychological harm induced by generative AI and its legal remedies

The rapid advancement of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed human interaction with technology, raising critical concerns about its psychological impact. While AI-driven tools offer unprecedented convenience and efficiency, they also pose risks to mental well-being. This study adopts a qualitative research approach, integrating case analysis and library-based data analysis. Thematic and content analysis methods are employed to investigate the operational mechanisms of generative AI and its direct and indirect effects on human psychology. The findings reveal that AI-generated psychological harm is difficult to quantify, often subjective, and influenced by the evolving nature of human-AI interactions. Furthermore, the study identifies gaps in existing legal frameworks and highlights the complexities of attributing liability in cases of AI-induced psychological damage. This research proposes legal remedies encompassing emotional distress compensation, regulatory oversight, preventative standards, and AI liability insurance. By bridging the gap between AI innovation and mental health protection, this study contributes to the growing discourse on AI governance and provides a foundation for future legal and policy developments to safeguard individuals from AI-induced psychological harm.