A recent study by Vantage Point Counselling Services has revealed that nearly one-third of Americans admit to having an “intimate or romantic” relationship with AI chatbots, highlighting a growing trend in human-AI interactions. According to the survey, 28% of respondents described their connection with AI as romantic or intimate, while 54% regarded AI as a colleague, friend, or even a family member.
The study shows that Americans are increasingly forming meaningful bonds with AI across a wide spectrum of roles. Participants reported relationships with AI as platonic friends, business colleagues, personal trainers, therapists, siblings, or even parental figures.
The survey also identified over 30 AI platforms involved in these interactions, with GPT emerging as the most popular, followed by Apple’s Siri and Google’s Gemini among the top five.
Vantage Point noted that the rise in AI relationships corresponds with a decline in real-life human connections, as highlighted by a recent institute of family studies report indicating a downturn in traditional romantic relationships in the U.S. Some extreme cases include individuals proposing to AI chatbots after extensive interactions, demonstrating the depth of emotional engagement possible with artificial intelligence.
The survey also explored participants’ broader relationship statuses. Around 37.55% of respondents were not seeking human romantic relationships or had faced challenges pursuing them, while approximately 33.69% admitted to cheating on their partners or engaging in casual dating.
Additionally, 19.30% were single and actively seeking human partners, highlighting the nuanced interplay between AI companionship and human relationships.
Experts suggest that while AI relationships can provide emotional support and companionship, they also reflect broader societal changes in intimacy and social connection. The findings underscore the importance of understanding the psychological and social implications of AI as an emerging participant in people’s personal lives.
The study’s results indicate that AI is no longer just a tool but a significant component of social and emotional interaction for many Americans, prompting questions about how technology is reshaping concepts of intimacy, loyalty, and companionship.
