Adolescents' use of generative AI can transition into clinical AI dependence or addiction, mirroring historical patterns of technology panic.

Cross-lagged panel modeling reveals that emerging AI technologies trigger a societal "technology panic" similar to historic panics over radio addiction. Self-medication and compensatory internet theories explain that individuals suffering from underlying anxiety or depression use these interactive systems to escape real-world stressors, eventually establishing a pathological dependence loop. This pattern mirrors traditional smartphone and computer-mediated addictions but is amplified by the instantaneous, tailored feedback loops unique to generative AI platforms.