Trend AI companionship chatbots as a response to unwanted loneliness

Summary

The report links living alone, moving far from home, remote work and socialising more through social media than in person to changing emotional ties and rising mental health problems among young and old. Against this backdrop, AI is emerging as a source of company and a resource against unwanted loneliness. That loneliness stems from a mismatch between the relationships people have and those they want, and often shows up as emptiness and a lack of trusted bonds. Companion virtual assistants offer active listening, validation and presence, and may even help ease anxiety and depression, both closely tied to loneliness. Because they are accessible and easy to use, they can get around obstacles to conventional psychological care such as working hours, distance or cost. In Spain, services aimed at young and older people are already in use.