Using Large Language Models for Emotional Support of Bulgarian Users: A Survey
Provides initial insights into LLM-based emotional support adoption among Bulgarian students, but is limited by small sample size and self-reported data.
A survey of 100 Bulgarian students found that about half use chatbots for emotional support, with ChatGPT being most popular; 71% of users find it effective, but non-users are skeptical and concerns about data security and reliability remain.
The use of large language models (LLMs) for psychological and emotional support (ES) has rapidly evolved, becoming the most widely used application of generative artificial intelligence among consumers by 2025. This paper presents the results of an anonymous survey of 100 Bulgarian users, primarily high school, university, and doctoral students, to explore their attitudes toward and usage of chatbots for emotional support. Findings indicate that approximately one-half of the surveyed population utilizes chatbots for ES, with ChatGPT being the most dominant platform. Users primarily seek support for coping with stress in interpersonal relationships and work or study-related environments. While 71% of users perceive the technology as effective, non-users remain sceptical. Despite the growing adoption, significant concerns persist regarding data security, technology reliability, and the tendency of chatbots to provide excessive affirmation.