URGENT UPDATE: New research from OpenAI and the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) uncovers significant shifts in how users are interacting with ChatGPT. The findings reveal that a staggering 80% of all interactions fall into three key categories: “Practical Guidance,” “Seeking Information,” and “Writing.” This report, authored by OpenAI’s Economic Research team and Harvard economist David Deming, highlights a growing trend of personal use among the chatbot’s extensive user base.
The study indicates that “Practical Guidance” is the most common use of ChatGPT, encompassing tutoring, how-to advice, and creative brainstorming. Meanwhile, “Seeking Information” serves as a modern substitute for traditional search engines. Notably, “Writing,” which includes drafting emails and documents, constitutes 40% of work-related usage. This reflects a sharp decline, as work-related interactions have dropped from 47% in June 2024 to just 27% in June 2025.
This shift is compelling, especially as businesses struggle to extract value from AI investments. With non-work-related interactions surging from 53% to 73%, it appears users are increasingly turning to ChatGPT for personal reasons rather than professional tasks.
Despite the rise in personal usage, OpenAI’s research also indicates that only a small fraction of conversations focus on social-emotional issues, with just 2% of messages seeking companionship or therapy. A mere 0.4% of users discussed relationships or personal reflections. However, other studies suggest that these numbers could be underestimating the trend, with Common Sense Media reporting that one in three teens use AI chatbots for social interaction.
The user demographics are shifting as well. The NBER study reveals that 46% of messages are from users aged 18-25, who are more likely to engage with ChatGPT for personal use. This younger demographic highlights the platform’s appeal among the youth, while also indicating a closing “gender gap.” Once dominated by male users, the share of individuals with “masculine first names” has dropped from 80% in 2022 to 48%, suggesting an increase in female engagement.
These findings underscore the evolving landscape of AI interaction, particularly in how younger generations are leveraging technology for both practical and personal needs. The data has raised questions about the future of AI usage, particularly regarding mental health and social interaction.
Looking ahead, it will be crucial to monitor how these trends develop, especially as companies continue to explore the potential of AI. As OpenAI’s research suggests, while the chatbot is being used more frequently for personal reasons, the long-term implications of this shift remain to be seen.
Stay tuned for further updates on how AI and user interaction continue to evolve in this rapidly changing landscape.