Original Reddit post

Hello, My name is Grace Wang, and I am a student researcher at the University of California, Los Angeles investigating human behavior and health. I am conducting a research study on the use of AI for simulation of the deceased. I am particularly interested in people who have used AI to simulate or talk with someone who has passed away, often referred to as “griefbots,” “deathbots,” or digital replicas. The study aims to understand, in your own words, how these experiences shape relationality, memory, and loss. I am interested in your experience, and whatever insights you have to share from them. You are eligible if you are 18 or older, speak English fluently, have completed high school or some equivalent, and have used an AI agent or tool to simulate or interact with a deceased individual. Some of the questions I am interested in include: Can you walk me through how you began using AI for this purpose? What were you hoping to find in using it? How has your use changed over time? Because this topic can be difficult, the researcher will check in with you throughout the interview, and you may stop at any point. Interviews will take place between December 2026 - February 2027, over Zoom, and will last around 60 minutes, though you will have the option to continue longer, or to schedule a follow-up interview. Your name and any identifying details will not be included in any reports. You can choose to decline to answer as many of the questions as you would like, take a break, or stop at any time, and you also have the option of redacting any information after the interview. After our conversation, I will send a finalized interview transcript for you to edit or delete information from at your own full discretion. You will have the option to accept compensation of a $30 gift card for your time or to have a $30 donation made to one of the following organizations: The Dougy Center Center for Humane Technology Other memorial fund/charitable organization of your choice Participation is entirely voluntary. If you are interested in participating or have further questions, please reach out to the researcher, Grace Wang at [ gracexwang@ucla.edu ](mailto: gracexwang@ucla.edu ). submitted by /u/Interesting-Cat-7838

Originally posted by u/Interesting-Cat-7838 on r/ArtificialInteligence