A Menlo Ventures partner says some software engineers are experiencing heightened stress and dissatisfaction as companies increase their use of AI in software development. The partner describes an “identity crisis bordering on depression,” citing situations where engineers spend substantial time reviewing, correcting, and maintaining AI-generated code rather than focusing on traditional problem-solving and building. This dynamic can lead to burnout and frustration, according to the account shared with Business Insider. The criticism centers on the workflow shift caused by AI adoption: when AI tools generate code quickly, engineers may be pulled into additional debugging and rework, with less clarity about their role in the development process. While the commentary focuses on the effects on individuals, it does not identify specific employers or provide quantified data. Overall, the reporting characterizes AI-driven development as a factor that can change engineers’ day-to-day tasks and contribute to morale challenges for some workers.