On the effect of functional and humanoid elements of ChatGPT on users’ intention to use it

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

Parastou Mousavi

Alireza Hadadian

Ghasem Eslami

Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

10.22067/jstinp.2025.94502.1163

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the key elements that shape users’ intention to use ChatGPT, an advanced AI-driven conversational system that has rapidly transformed human-computer interaction. Specifically, the research examines how both functional elements (usefulness, enjoyment, and customization) and humanoid elements (social presence, emotions, and anthropomorphism) influence users’ behavioral intention through their overall experience and satisfaction. Using a non-probability convenience sampling method, data were collected from 387 postgraduate students who had prior experience with ChatGPT. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was applied using AMOS and SPSS to test the proposed hypotheses and assess the strength of relationships among variables. The results reveal that both functional and humanoid elements significantly enhance user experience and satisfaction, which in turn positively affect users’ intention to use ChatGPT. The findings offer valuable insights for AI developers, UX designers, and policymakers seeking to improve user engagement, sustainable adoption, and trust in AI-enabled conversational systems.

Keywords

Anthropomorphism

ChatGPT

Chatbot

Customization

User Experience

Satisfaction

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