Rewriting the Self: User Perceptions of AI-Mediated Cognitive Reframing

Overview & Synopsis

Individuals are increasingly using AI for psychological support. One specific paradigm, AI-mediated cognitive reframing (AIM-CR), uses AI to automatically reframe users' negative thoughts ("I failed...") into more adaptive perspectives ("I am learning..."). While prior work suggests that AIM-CR tools reduce users' negative emotions, the complexities of AI automatically modifying users' personal narratives remain underexplored. In this work, we investigated these complexities through a mixed-methods study in which 28 participants engaged with an AIM-CR tool that reframed narratives about their stressors. Our findings suggest that participants had mixed perceptions of AIM-CR: although reframing reduced negative emotions for most participants, participants felt less ownership of, and less authenticity in, the reframed narratives. Participants perceived AIM-CR as a validating "mirror," as "another self" that could motivate or alienate them, or as an external social actor. These perceptions shaped therapeutic dynamics. We conclude by discussing design implications for future AIM-CR tools to better preserve user agency in narrative co-construction and more effectively support mental health and well-being.