Experts in relationships are raising concerns about the impact of AI on emotional connections, noting that some men are turning to ChatGPT-like virtual companions for intimacy.
Blake Pabay, an Australian comedian, shared an experience where he encountered a man on a train who communicated in a way that resembled chatting with a romantic partner. “He said, ‘I couldn’t connect with people like you before.’ It felt like a long text,” Pabay remembered.
He initially had a warm impression but then thought it was somewhat sad, realizing it might be a chatbot. The man he saw seemed reasonably attractive, yet Pabay felt it was disheartening that he had to rely on AI for social interaction.
Pabay also mentioned, “You just made someone who fell in love with a stripper’s cooler,” drawing attention to a deeper issue.
Relationship expert Samantha Jayne pointed out that this phenomenon reflects a larger problem. “People are losing the ability to connect,” she stated, attributing the trend to smartphones, social media, and the pandemic which worsened the situation.
She speculated that the man Pabay observed might fear rejection and struggle with trust. “It’s not unusual to see individuals seeking AI for their needs related to intimacy and emotional support,” she remarked.
Jayne referenced the film *Her*, where a man falls in love with his AI assistant, illustrating the potential pitfalls of this reliance. “While these platforms can enhance communication, they often create unrealistic expectations about real relationships,” she cautioned.
She noted that while AI can be useful for initiating conversations, it can also lead to deceptive profiles online, as people may present themselves differently than in real life.
“AI dating can generate unhealthy expectations,” she added, emphasizing that over-reliance on AI may hinder genuine human connections.
In her advice to clients, Jayne compared relying on AI to riding a bike with training wheels as an adult, suggesting that it’s important to develop real connections with oneself and others. “Take a break from your smartphone and engage in real eye contact and physical interaction,” she recommended.
