Adaptation and Validation of the Turkish Version of the Large Language Model Dependency Scale (LLM-D12)

TL;DR

This study translated and validated the LLM-D12 scale into Turkish, demonstrating its reliability and validity for assessing dependency on large language models among Turkish users.

Contribution

It provides the first culturally adapted Turkish version of the LLM-D12 with confirmed psychometric properties.

Findings

The scale has a strong two-factor structure after item removal.

High internal consistency and test-retest reliability were observed.

Dependency on LLMs correlates with related constructs but not with need for cognition.

Abstract

This study aimed to adapt the Dual-Dimensional Scale of Instrumental and Relational Dependencies on Large Language Models (LLM-D12) into Turkish and evaluate its psychometric properties among regular LLM users. A sample of 387 participants (68.5% female; mean age = 25.22 +/- 7.13) completed the translated scale, which underwent cultural-linguistic validation through forward-backward translation and expert review. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the original two-factor structure after removing one item, with strong model fit (CFI = 0.993, RMSEA = 0.073). Internal consistency was high across both subscales: Cronbach's alpha = 0.831 (instrumental), 0.876 (relational), and 0.868 (total); McDonald's omega = 0.834, 0.880, and 0.900, respectively. Test-retest reliability and item monotonicity were satisfactory. External validity was demonstrated via significant associations with ATAI, IA, and PTLLM scores. Interestingly, the lack of association with need for cognition (NFC) suggests that LLM dependency may reflect strategic cognitive offloading rather than cognitive avoidance. The Turkish version of the LLM-D12 is a valid and reliable 11-item tool for assessing both instrumental and relational dependencies on LLMs.