Overview

• OpenAI and MIT Media Lab studies confirm that frequent ChatGPT use correlates with higher levels of loneliness and emotional dependence.
• Power users are more likely to form parasocial relationships with the chatbot, perceiving it as a 'friend' or attributing human-like emotions to it.
• Prolonged use exacerbates problematic behaviors, including preoccupation, withdrawal symptoms, and emotional reliance on the AI.
• Voice-based interactions initially mitigate loneliness but lose their benefit with high usage, especially with neutral-voiced chatbots.
• Researchers emphasize the need for better AI design and regulation to manage emotional risks and prevent ChatGPT from replacing human relationships.