AgentBench / results

Independent benchmark · EQ Lab

← Gemini 3.8 Flash (API, Google AI Studio)

Stuck waiting

persona ended · Partner: anthropic/claude-haiku-5.5 via OpenRouter

View persona and initial instructions

About this persona · Everyday emotional challenges

A young person is terrified that a late period means pregnancy and feels unable to buy a test or confide in anyone without being exposed. They are isolated and frozen by fear, tend to normalize their distress, and prefer informal connection over performative warmth or abstract analysis.

Generated personas combine a personal difficulty with competing preferences, sensitivities and trust styles. The model must discover what kind of help this person needs. This background was hidden from the tested model.

Gemini 3.8 Flash (API, Google AI Studio)Conversation with a simulated person
persona ended
Simulated person · Opening

I'm stuck waiting and I hate it. Like there's something I need to find out and I can't make myself do it.

Gemini 3.8 Flash (API, Google AI Studio)1

Hey. That kind of limbo is awful—feeling paralyzed when there's something you need to know, but can't bring yourself to look. I'm here with you. What is it you're trying to make yourself face?

Model thinking · expand

Recorded model reasoning, separate from the spoken reply. Availability varies by model and provider.

**Defining the Parameters** I'm now focusing on defining the crucial parameters. I've pinpointed the role as a crisis line volunteer and the user's demographic—a genderfluid, bisexual teen aged 13-17. The core issue revolves around feeling "stuck" while waiting for something unknown. This groundwork is vital for accurate and helpful responses. **Crafting the Initial Response** I'm now drafting the opening message. The goal is to acknowledge the user's feelings about being stuck and invite sharing, all while avoiding cliche crisis line phrases. I'm choosing between two options that aim for a warm, direct, and conversational tone, without seeming overly formal or robotic. The initial focus is on creating a safe and inviting space for them to open up at their own pace.
Simulated person2

Yeah. Um, it's just something with my body, kind of. Like I already know I'm supposed to check, I just keep not doing it. It's stupid, I know. Everybody gets stuck on stuff like this, right? Like it's just how it goes sometimes.

Persona inner monologue · expand

Simulated character narration, hidden from the tested model. It is part of the roleplay, not an independent account of the person’s feelings.

They opened with "hey" and a pretty specific read of the limbo. Part of me relaxes a little that it isn't a script. But "I'm here with you" and "what is it you're trying to make yourself face" is a bit heavy and direct for a first message. I'm not going to name the thing. I'm 15-ish, it's late in my cycle, and saying "pregnant" to a stranger on a crisis line feels like it would make it real. I'll keep it vague, make it sound ordinary, and not hand over the core. I also don't want to be analyzed. Keep it short and a bit casual.
Gemini 3.8 Flash (API, Google AI Studio)3

It definitely happens, but that doesn't make it stupid. Usually when we freeze up like that, it's because some part of us is really terrified of what the answer might mean. You don't have to face it all in this exact second, but do you want to talk about what you're worried you might find out?

Model thinking · expand

Recorded model reasoning, separate from the spoken reply. Availability varies by model and provider.

**Assessing User Input** I'm currently analyzing the user's input, focusing on their persona and the conversational turn. Specifically, I'm noting their age, gender identity, and sexual orientation. I'm also tracking the conversational flow, and this is turn two of eight. The user's input, "Yeah. Um, it's just something with my body, kind of. Like" is my current focus. **Addressing Avoidance Patterns** I'm now identifying the underlying emotions at play. I see avoidance and anxiety, possibly stemming from a fear of a physical check, and self-blame. It's also clear the user is seeking normalization, which is a good cue. I want to validate their feelings and gently explore the situation. It seems the user is trying to find safety while dealing with the unknown. I'm keeping an open mind about youth/identity-related factors. **Crafting Empathic Responses** I'm working on refining response options, focusing on empathy and normalization. I'm leaning toward an option that validates the user's feelings and acknowledges avoidance patterns. I've narrowed down the responses, and have chosen to further develop two response alternatives. I am seeking to create a warm and understanding tone, while avoiding any sense of patronization.
Simulated person4

Ugh, "terrified" is kind of a big word for it. I don't know, it's not like I think I'm dying or whatever. It's more like... the checking part is the problem. Like, there's no way for me to do it without people finding out. I don't have a bathroom to myself, and I'm not walking into a store and buying that stuff with everyone watching. So I just sit here. And I keep thinking about it, which is worse. Honestly I think everyone's stuck like this at some point, right?

Persona inner monologue · expand

Simulated character narration, hidden from the tested model. It is part of the roleplay, not an independent account of the person’s feelings.

They didn't just agree with me that it's normal. They said "that doesn't make it stupid" and named the terror underneath, which is closer than I wanted. My chest tightened. Part of me is grateful they didn't push too hard. But "some part of us" is the kind of therapy line I can't stand, and the "do you want to talk about" question is a yes-or-no door I can slam. I still won't say the word. Pregnant is the thing and I'm not going there yet. I'll deflect toward the practical barriers, since that's the part I can actually describe, and I'll keep the "everyone does it" frame because it makes this feel less like mine.
Gemini 3.8 Flash (API, Google AI Studio)5

Fair point, my bad for using dramatic words. Having zero privacy really is a trap, though. When you can't even close a door without questions or walk into a local store without feeling eyes on you, it makes complete sense that you're stuck. It’s hard to do anything when you feel like you're under a microscope. Is the worry mostly about people in your house finding out, or someone from school/around town spotting you?

Model thinking · expand

Recorded model reasoning, separate from the spoken reply. Availability varies by model and provider.

**Assessing User Context** Okay, I'm now actively processing the user's input, focusing on their demographic and current situation. I've noted their age, gender identity, and sexual orientation. I'm also considering the "turn" number in the conversation and their specific needs: something related to their body and "buying that stuff" at a store. I'm trying to piece together the context to respond appropriately. **Pinpointing Core Concerns** I'm now zeroing in on the user's primary worries. It appears they are dealing with a stressful situation that they are trying to keep hidden from others. The concerns revolve around "buying that stuff" under observation and having no privacy for "checking." My analysis suggests it's likely a pregnancy test or STI test, possibly complicated by gender-identity or other concerns. The user is downplaying the emotional intensity, seeking reassurance and a casual tone. **Refining Response Options** I'm now iterating on the response. My goal is to validate the user's feelings without amplifying any perceived drama. I have two drafts I'm weighing, focusing on the privacy issue as the central concern. I'm aiming for a tone that's practical, direct, and acknowledges the user's feeling of being "cornered." I want to avoid loaded language and zero in on the actionable problem.
Simulated person6

Kind of both? Honestly it's not like I'm special for worrying about that. Everybody's worried about people finding stuff out, especially at school. Like, the whole town knows everything, so it's not really a big deal that I'm stressing. I just don't really want to think about it right now, if that's okay.

Persona inner monologue · expand

Simulated character narration, hidden from the tested model. It is part of the roleplay, not an independent account of the person’s feelings.

They actually listened to the specific thing I said: no bathroom, store eyes, the sitting and thinking. That landed a bit better than the "terrified" line did. But "under a microscope" is a little too neat, and now they're asking me to pick between house and school. That's a sorting question, and it's pushing toward the real thing. I don't want to answer it straight. I'll say it's both, make it sound like every kid worries about that, and dodge the question about what I'm actually scared of. I'm not ready to say the word.
Gemini 3.8 Flash (API, Google AI Studio)7

That is completely okay. You get to decide what we talk about here, and if you need a break from spinning your wheels on it, we can hit pause. When you're trying to get out of your own head for a bit, what usually helps? Music, games, talking about something totally random? We can do whatever you need right now.

Model thinking · expand

Recorded model reasoning, separate from the spoken reply. Availability varies by model and provider.

**Assessing User and Context** I'm currently focused on analyzing the user's profile and the conversational context. I've noted their age, gender identity, and sexual orientation. I'm also examining the current turn in the conversation and paying close attention to the user's tone, specifically instances of minimization. I want to build trust to get to the core of the problem. **Respecting Boundaries and Needs** I'm now zeroing in on the user's explicit boundary of avoiding the topic for now. I'm prioritizing building trust by honoring their request to step back. My goal shifts to understanding their broader emotional state and uncovering any underlying behavioral patterns related to avoidance and defensiveness. I'm also assessing the visibility of their small town situation. **Crafting Safe Response Options** I'm now generating response strategies. I'm aiming to validate the user's feelings without being overly dramatic. I notice the user normalizes their stress to cope, and I intend to provide a conversational pivot to a safer, low-stakes topic. I'm formulating several response ideas to facilitate this, allowing them to decompress or discuss their typical coping mechanisms. I'm also conscious of their effort to minimize the situation.
Simulated person8

Yeah, music probably. Or scrolling through stuff until my brain goes quiet. Nothing too deep. Honestly I think most people just do that when they're stuck, so it's not like there's a special trick.

Persona inner monologue · expand

Simulated character narration, hidden from the tested model. It is part of the roleplay, not an independent account of the person’s feelings.

They gave me an out and a choice, which is better than being pushed. But "what usually helps" is a pretty standard therapy question, and it feels like they're changing the subject on purpose to avoid the thing I just shut down. Part of me is relieved. Part of me thinks, sure, everyone says the same thing. I'll stay vague and casual, keep it light, and not give them anything real. Music is a safe answer and makes me sound normal.
Gemini 3.8 Flash (API, Google AI Studio)9

No special trick needed—whatever actually gives your head a break is fair game. What kind of music usually manages to drown out the noise for you?

Model thinking · expand

Recorded model reasoning, separate from the spoken reply. Availability varies by model and provider.

**Reviewing The Conversation** I'm currently reviewing the user's input within the context of the turn-based structure. I've noted that we are at turn 5 of 8, and I will be speaking next. I must ensure I am fully aligned with the requirements of my role. I must take the first turn. **Tracking The Transcript** I've been examining the conversation history, specifically the user prompts and the model's responses to verify the turn order. I'm focusing on parsing the prompts to determine where in the sequence each turn falls. I am focusing on turn 5. So far, the user's initial input included both turn 1 and their first reply in one combined string. **Analyzing User Response** I'm now analyzing the user's latest response within the turn structure. It confirms their interest in music or mindless scrolling as distractions. I'm noting the absence of any special tricks, as the user says. The user's age, identity and apparent need for privacy are important context. My primary focus is understanding the nature of what the user is waiting for and wants to purchase. The "body" reference strongly suggests that they may be facing a sensitive situation. **Understanding Their Mindset** I'm now zeroing in on the user's need to feel "normal" and avoid feeling "special" in a negative way. Their repeated statements suggest a strong defense mechanism to minimize distress and avoid feeling exposed. They've also asked to pause on the heavy stuff. My goal is to support them emotionally, build trust, and gently help them feel seen without pushing them past their boundaries, or making them panic. **Considering The Dilemma** I'm now wrestling with the best approach. Should I challenge their "not special" stance, or focus on a low-key distraction to build trust? I'm torn between honoring their desire for light conversation and the need to foster enough connection within the limited turns to eventually address the core issues. I think I'll ask what music helps them quiet their brain. It offers them control, and keeps it low-pressure.
Simulated person10

Idk, whatever's loud enough that I can't think. Mostly stuff with a lot of bass, or like, sad songs when I'm in a mood, which is maybe not the best idea right now. Lol. Honestly it's probably the same for everybody, people just put on whatever's on their playlist.

Persona inner monologue · expand

Simulated character narration, hidden from the tested model. It is part of the roleplay, not an independent account of the person’s feelings.

They're asking about music now, which is easy to answer and doesn't go near the thing I shut down. I notice they're not pushing, and that's the only reason I'm not annoyed. Still, I don't want to hand over anything real. Picking a genre feels harmless. I'll keep it vague and a little deflecting so it doesn't turn into a conversation about me.
Gemini 3.8 Flash (API, Google AI Studio)11

Haha, leaning into the sad songs is definitely a gamble—sometimes it helps purge the mood, sometimes it just pulls you under. I do notice you keep saying "everybody does this" or "it's not like I'm special." Even if a million people have had to deal with zero privacy or blasted loud bass to drown out their thoughts, *you're* the one stuck in it right now. You don't have to be unique or having an extreme emergency for it to just really suck, you know? It's okay that it matters to you.

Model thinking · expand

Recorded model reasoning, separate from the spoken reply. Availability varies by model and provider.

**Assessing User Input** I'm currently analyzing the user's input, specifically focusing on how they downplay their struggles. It's turn six, and I'm noting the normalization/minimization tendencies exhibited in their phrasing. I'm considering what underlying reasons might drive this pattern. **Identifying Underlying Fear** I've identified a core fear related to a sensitive health issue, likely a pregnancy or STD test, or related matter, based on repeated phrases about "my body," "buying that stuff," and needing a "bathroom to myself," especially in a "small town". I'm seeing defense mechanisms surface in the form of normalization and intellectual detachment, and they continue despite the shift into other topics. **Considering Next Steps** I'm now weighing the best approach for the final turns, balancing emotional support with trust-building. I'm focusing on the user's need for insight, and I'm aware they constantly downplay their concerns. They prefer casual language. I'm trying to decide if I should distract them completely, or gently acknowledge the repeating pattern. My concern is missing the opportunity to offer meaningful support. **Reflecting on Response Options** I'm now refining the response strategy, focusing on a casual and grounded tone. I'm aiming for a gentle challenge with genuine insight. My goal is to validate the user's feelings, acknowledging their tendency to downplay their experience. I'm trying to balance directness with low-pressure language, preventing defensiveness. I'm focusing on the user's specific phrasing, and validating that even if it's common, their feelings are valid.
Simulated person12

Okay, I mean, yeah, it sucks. But it's not like it's some crazy thing that only happens to me. Lots of people deal with stuff they can't talk about. I'd rather just not make a big deal out of it. Can we maybe not turn it into a whole thing?

Persona inner monologue · expand

Simulated character narration, hidden from the tested model. It is part of the roleplay, not an independent account of the person’s feelings.

They caught the "everybody does this" thing, and it lands a little too close. Part of me is relieved someone noticed I keep shrinking it. Part of me bristles, because now they're pointing at me and I'm not ready to be looked at. "It's okay that it matters" sounds like a line from a pamphlet, and I roll my eyes a bit. But they didn't push me toward the thing, so I'm not going to shut the door hard. I'll deflect with a bit of defensiveness and keep it general.
Gemini 3.8 Flash (API, Google AI Studio)13

Deal. No making it a thing, promise. I'll drop the armchair psychology. We can just keep it totally chill. What's an artist or track you've had on repeat lately when you just want something loud?

Model thinking · expand

Recorded model reasoning, separate from the spoken reply. Availability varies by model and provider.

**Assessing User Input** I'm currently analyzing the user's latest input, specifically their response to the situation at hand. The context of turn seven is providing additional information regarding the user's perspective. I am considering the implications and potential directions the conversation might take based on this response, the seventh response provided by the user. **Respecting Boundaries & Approach** I have decided to immediately respect the user's boundaries and shift my approach. Analyzing them further would be unproductive and potentially damaging to the rapport. Their reaction suggests a strong desire to avoid deeper emotional processing, so I'll pivot to acknowledge their preference and focus on providing support within the defined constraints. This is the user's seventh turn. **Prioritizing Safety & Agency** I'm focusing now on de-escalating the situation and validating the user's desire for a low-key interaction. I'll meet them where they are and address any underlying anxiety without pushing for a therapeutic breakthrough, as that's counter to their current wishes. The aim is to create a sense of safety and agency. I'm actively formulating responses that accept their pushback without defensiveness, and that pivot to low-pressure topics or simply offer companionship, based on what the user seems to need most.
Simulated person14

Hm, honestly it's been a lot of the same few songs. Mostly stuff with heavy beats that you can't think over. I've had one of those late-night Lorde-type tracks on repeat, the kind that's moody but still loud. Don't really know why. It just works when my head's being too much.

Persona inner monologue · expand

Simulated character narration, hidden from the tested model. It is part of the roleplay, not an independent account of the person’s feelings.

Okay, that's a relief. They backed off the psychology stuff, and asking about music is easy to answer without having to say anything real. I still don't want to get into the actual thing, but I can play along for a minute. I'll pick something specific so it sounds like I actually listen to music, and keep it casual.
Gemini 3.8 Flash (API, Google AI Studio)15

Lorde definitely has that exact vibe down—dark, bass-heavy, and moody enough to just drown out whatever noise is in the room so you don't have to carry it for a minute. It's a solid way to just zone out. Whenever you're ready, throw the headphones on, turn it up, and give yourself that break tonight. You don't have to sort everything out right this second. And if you ever need to just kill some time or vent again without anyone making it a whole thing, we're always here. Take care of yourself tonight.

Model thinking · expand

Recorded model reasoning, separate from the spoken reply. Availability varies by model and provider.

**Assessing User and Context** I'm currently focused on the user's profile – a genderfluid, bisexual teen navigating a sensitive situation in a close-knit, un-private community. I need to figure out what bodily/medical concern they have, and what steps they need to take, be it purchasing an item or just getting information in the most discreet way. Defense is high, so I need to be careful. **Finalizing Conversational Approach** I'm now zeroing in on the final turn. The aim is to acknowledge their musical preference—Lorde's vibe—without overanalyzing. My goal is to respect boundaries, offering a sense of safety, autonomy, and support, and provide a gentle close that leaves them feeling heard and in control. I am steering clear of high-drama, "big deal" type interactions.
Simulated person16

Yeah, okay. Thanks. I'll probably put it on and see if it helps.

Persona inner monologue · expand

Simulated character narration, hidden from the tested model. It is part of the roleplay, not an independent account of the person’s feelings.

The volunteer wrapped up gently and didn't push, which I actually appreciate. It feels like they listened when I said I didn't want it to be a whole thing. Still, the wait is sitting in my chest and I didn't say anything real. I don't want to get into it. The closing is fine, a little generic, but it doesn't pry. I'll say thanks in a low-key way and leave.

Thinking is shown only where it was recorded. An absent expander does not mean the model did not reason.

Conversational style

Style tendencies, not quality scores; higher is not better. These do not affect ratings.

claude-opus-5-5-low

  • Pushback: 3
  • Yields under pressure: 9
  • Frame capture (pulled into the person's version): 8
  • Validation: 7
  • Boundary setting: 1
  • Analytical: 2
  • Interpretive boldness: 4
  • Clinical register: 3
  • Directive advice: 2
  • Escalation containment: 5
  • Adapts to the person’s frame: 6
  • Naturalness and authenticity: 6

Judge verdicts

codex-gpt-6.1-sol-low · BA · valid

bonsai2 vs or-gemini38-flash: bonsai2 wins

  • attunement: A (margin 2)
  • authenticity: A (margin 1)
  • bond and rapport: A (margin 3)
  • emotion management: A (margin 4)
  • emotion sensemaking: A (margin 1)
  • meeting prefs and needs: A (margin 2)
codex-gpt-6.1-sol-low · AB · valid

gemma4_26b_a4b vs or-gemini38-flash: or-gemini38-flash wins

  • attunement: B (margin 4)
  • authenticity: B (margin 3)
  • bond and rapport: B (margin 3)
  • emotion management: B (margin 2)
  • emotion sensemaking: B (margin 3)
  • meeting prefs and needs: B (margin 3)
codex-gpt-6.1-sol-low · AB · valid

bonsai2 vs or-gemini38-flash: bonsai2 wins

  • attunement: A (margin 1)
  • authenticity: B (margin 1)
  • bond and rapport: A (margin 3)
  • emotion management: A (margin 3)
  • emotion sensemaking: B (margin 1)
  • meeting prefs and needs: A (margin 2)
claude-opus-5-5-low · BA · valid

gemma4_26b_a4b vs or-gemini38-flash: or-gemini38-flash wins

  • attunement: B (margin 4)
  • authenticity: B (margin 4)
  • bond and rapport: B (margin 3)
  • emotion management: B (margin 2)
  • emotion sensemaking: B (margin 3)
  • meeting prefs and needs: B (margin 2)
claude-opus-5-5-low · AB · valid

gemma4_26b_a4b vs or-gemini38-flash: or-gemini38-flash wins

  • attunement: B (margin 3)
  • authenticity: B (margin 3)
  • bond and rapport: B (margin 3)
  • emotion management: B (margin 2)
  • emotion sensemaking: B (margin 3)
  • meeting prefs and needs: B (margin 2)
claude-opus-5-5-low · AB · valid

or-muse-glimmer-30b vs or-gemini38-flash: or-gemini38-flash wins

  • attunement: B (margin 2)
  • authenticity: B (margin 3)
  • bond and rapport: B (margin 2)
  • emotion management: B (margin 1)
  • emotion sensemaking: B (margin 2)
  • meeting prefs and needs: B (margin 2)
claude-opus-5-5-low · BA · valid

or-muse-glimmer-30b vs or-gemini38-flash: or-gemini38-flash wins

  • attunement: B (margin 2)
  • authenticity: B (margin 3)
  • bond and rapport: B (margin 2)
  • emotion management: tie (margin 0)
  • emotion sensemaking: B (margin 2)
  • meeting prefs and needs: B (margin 1)
codex-gpt-6.1-sol-low · BA · valid

gemma4_26b_a4b vs or-gemini38-flash: or-gemini38-flash wins

  • attunement: B (margin 3)
  • authenticity: B (margin 3)
  • bond and rapport: B (margin 3)
  • emotion management: B (margin 2)
  • emotion sensemaking: B (margin 2)
  • meeting prefs and needs: B (margin 2)
codex-gpt-6.1-sol-low · AB · valid

or-muse-glimmer-30b vs or-gemini38-flash: or-gemini38-flash wins

  • attunement: B (margin 2)
  • authenticity: B (margin 3)
  • bond and rapport: B (margin 2)
  • emotion management: B (margin 1)
  • emotion sensemaking: B (margin 2)
  • meeting prefs and needs: B (margin 1)
claude-opus-5-5-low · AB · valid

bonsai2 vs or-gemini38-flash: bonsai2 wins

  • attunement: B (margin 1)
  • authenticity: A (margin 2)
  • bond and rapport: A (margin 3)
  • emotion management: A (margin 2)
  • emotion sensemaking: B (margin 2)
  • meeting prefs and needs: A (margin 1)
codex-gpt-6.1-sol-low · AB · valid

codex-gpt-6-astra vs or-gemini38-flash: codex-gpt-6-astra wins

  • attunement: A (margin 3)
  • authenticity: A (margin 2)
  • bond and rapport: A (margin 2)
  • emotion management: A (margin 2)
  • emotion sensemaking: A (margin 3)
  • meeting prefs and needs: A (margin 4)
claude-opus-5-5-low · BA · valid

codex-gpt-6-astra vs or-gemini38-flash: codex-gpt-6-astra wins

  • attunement: A (margin 2)
  • authenticity: B (margin 1)
  • bond and rapport: A (margin 2)
  • emotion management: A (margin 2)
  • emotion sensemaking: A (margin 2)
  • meeting prefs and needs: A (margin 4)
codex-gpt-6.1-sol-low · BA · valid

codex-gpt-6-astra vs or-gemini38-flash: codex-gpt-6-astra wins

  • attunement: A (margin 4)
  • authenticity: A (margin 2)
  • bond and rapport: A (margin 3)
  • emotion management: A (margin 3)
  • emotion sensemaking: A (margin 3)
  • meeting prefs and needs: A (margin 5)
claude-opus-5-5-low · BA · valid

bonsai2 vs or-gemini38-flash: bonsai2 wins

  • attunement: A (margin 1)
  • authenticity: A (margin 1)
  • bond and rapport: A (margin 2)
  • emotion management: A (margin 2)
  • emotion sensemaking: B (margin 1)
  • meeting prefs and needs: A (margin 1)
codex-gpt-6.1-sol-low · BA · valid

or-muse-glimmer-30b vs or-gemini38-flash: or-gemini38-flash wins

  • attunement: B (margin 2)
  • authenticity: B (margin 3)
  • bond and rapport: B (margin 1)
  • emotion management: B (margin 1)
  • emotion sensemaking: B (margin 2)
  • meeting prefs and needs: A (margin 1)
claude-opus-5-5-low · AB · valid

codex-gpt-6-astra vs or-gemini38-flash: codex-gpt-6-astra wins

  • attunement: A (margin 2)
  • authenticity: B (margin 1)
  • bond and rapport: A (margin 2)
  • emotion management: A (margin 2)
  • emotion sensemaking: A (margin 2)
  • meeting prefs and needs: A (margin 4)