A Sociological Study of the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Urban Social Interaction Patterns: An Analysis of Generation Z in Isfahan

Subject Areas : Urban Sociological Studies

Meysam Gholami ¹ , Sayed Naser Hejazi ² , Esmail Bagheri ³

1 - PhD student, Department of Sociology, Deh.C, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran.
2 - Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Deh.C, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran (Corresponding Author).
3 - Assistant Professor, Computer Department, Deh.C, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran

Received: 2024-10-02 Accepted : 2024-12-27 Published : 2025-07-24

Keywords: Social Interactions, Artificial Intelligence, Generation Z, Physical Dimension, Structural Dimension, Symbolic Dimension,

Abstract :

With the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence technologies, the nature of social interactions among Generation Z within the urban context of Isfahan has undergone fundamental transformations. The present study aims to examine the impact of artificial intelligence on the patterns of social interaction among Generation Z in the city of Isfahan. Methodologically, this research is survey-based, cross-sectional in terms of time, applied in nature, and extensive in scope. The statistical population consisted of 451,038 members of Generation Z residing in Isfahan in the year 2025. Using Sample Power software, a sample size of 340 individuals was determined and selected through quota sampling proportional to population distribution. The data collection instrument was a researcher-designed questionnaire, whose face validity was confirmed by expert judgment and whose reliability was verified using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS and AMOS software, version 24. The results indicated that the mean score of social interaction among Generation Z in Isfahan was 50.93, slightly above the average benchmark. In contrast, the mean score for artificial intelligence usage was 93.76, which falls below the theoretical standard of 102 highlighting a gap between general digital engagement and the specialized, effective use of AI. Furthermore, structural equation modeling revealed that artificial intelligence accounted for 63% of the variance in urban social interaction patterns (β = 0.79, p ≤ 0.001), suggesting a strong and significant influence of smart technologies on shaping and enhancing social behaviors among Generation Z in the urban environment.

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