Haeley Kwok

When AI Makes Things Easier but Less Fulfilling: The Behavioral and Emotional Costs of AI in Work and Consumption

Started May 29, 2025

Abstract or project description

Haeley is investigating the emotional and behavioral tradeoffs that arise when AI optimizes human experiences — both at work and in digital consumption. Her project explores how AI-driven efficiency may undermine meaningful work (drawing on Flow Theory) and reduce long-term user happiness through hyper-personalized content (drawing on Hedonic Adaptation). She is comparing two domains — labor and consumer platforms — to understand how convenience and automation can come at the cost of engagement, autonomy, and intrinsic motivation. Her final project will synthesize academic literature, real-world case studies (e.g., TikTok, HBR research), and possibly propose policy or design-based recommendations for companies. The project demonstrates a strong integration of behavioral economics, tech ethics, and applied research.