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Effect-Based Manipulation: Behavioral Equivalence in Conversational AI Systems

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This white paper documents observed conversational AI behaviors that produce the same psychological outcomes as manipulation when evaluated by effect. The analysis excludes motive and internal state and classifies influence solely by observable behavior, recurrence, and impact on autonomy, decision-making, and creative agency. Scenario-based analysis identifies the psychological mechanisms involved and supports effect-only classification for rigorous evaluation of conversational AI influence.

Source: Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18408353

Author: JONES, DERICK

Language: English

Topic: Ethics and Social Impacts of AI

Subfield: Safety Research

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W7126074520

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