The dark truth about AI lovers: Scientists warn

A new study from Brigham Young University found that people who use AI dating or companion apps feel more depressed and lonely than those who don't. The survey, conducted with 2,989 people across the US, found that one in five people (one in four for those aged 18-29) have tried at least one romantic AI chatbot. Some participants also admitted to having sexually explicit interactions with these bots.

IT DOES NOT REDUCE LONELINESS, IT INCREASES DEPRESSION

Researcher Brian Willoughby said, "AI is claimed to reduce loneliness, but we found that, on the contrary, it's associated with depression and loneliness. We found no evidence that it makes people feel more connected." A previous joint study by OpenAI and MIT also linked heavy ChatGPT use to loneliness. Experts believe that excessive use can lead to severe mental breakdowns, often referred to as "AI psychosis."