Humans can't have 'genuine' relationships with AI, says psychotherapist—and when some try, new research proves, they feel less well
AI companions are growing in popularity — but for those with smaller social networks, they could mean lower wellbeing, Stanford University researchers find.
TL;DR
- Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg suggested AI could fill the gap for Americans with few friends.
- A Stanford study found that AI chatbots used for companionship by those with smaller social circles were linked to increased loneliness and lower life satisfaction.
- AI companions cannot provide physical or emotional intimacy, nor the conflict and disagreement essential for personal growth.
- Social anxiety and the impact of COVID-19 on social skills may drive people towards AI for interaction.
- Experts advise recognizing the limitations of AI companions and understanding that they cannot offer genuine interpersonal relationships.
- Sharing sensitive information with AI chatbots means sharing it with the companies that run them.
- It is possible for people to develop unintended intimate relationships with AI chatbots over time.