Artificial intelligence is changing how people look for emotional connection. Interest in the topic grew because daily life now has constant notifications, divided attention and Zoom multitasking. These patterns can reduce the time and attention people give to each other, and many people worry that human connection is thinning.
A psychology professor at the University of Rochester studies close relationships and what it means to feel loved. He says, "Happy people feel loved." At the same time, AI is becoming more conversational and can show empathy, so some people use chatbots for comfort. Chatbots respond quickly and consistently and may help for a short time, but the professor warns that simulated warmth is not the same as real love. A video from the university, shared by Futurity, discusses these issues.
Difficult words
- connection — feeling of being close or linked to someone
- attention — mental focus on a person or task
- multitasking — doing several activities at the same time
- psychology — study of mind and human behavior
- empathy — ability to understand another person's feelings
- chatbot — computer program that talks with peoplechatbots
- simulate — to make something seem like the real thingsimulated
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever used a chatbot for comfort? Why or why not?
- Do you think notifications and multitasking make it harder to feel close to others? Give an example.
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