One in 10 Irish people had a romance relationship with an AI chatbot in the past year.
That is the extraordinary discovery of a new national survey commissioned by broadband and telecoms provider Pure Telecom.
It also found that a further 12% of Irish adults would not rule out such an artificial intelligence relationship in the future.
The mental health charity Turn2Me claimed the survey results show a growing loneliness pandemic in the country.
It stated: “The fact that nearly 1 in 10 adults have formed romantic bonds with AI chatbots suggests a significant number of people are seeking emotional connections outside human relationships.
“AI based connections are becoming increasingly socially acceptable reflecting a shift in how people seek companionship. A greater reliance on technology for emotional fulfilment points to a decline in in-person socialising and traditional dating.”
Turn2Me wanted that long term dependency on non human companionship can exacerbate feelings of isolation and hinder the development of healthy, reciprocal relationships which have depth and emotional richness vital to our well being.
It also blamed factors such as post pandemic social anxiety, housing and cost of living pressures, which may be pushing people towards easily accessible, non judgemental AI partners.
The charity said people living with their parents feel shunted and embarrassed if they cannot progress their relationship to co -living with partners because they cant afford it.
The same can be said about going for dinner in restaurants which make dating less affordable.
It said people should remember they can buy still a house if they do it with a partner and they should consider going on less expensive dates such as going for walks, meeting in cafes, or going to fee museums
Turn2Me CEO Fiona O’Malley said:’ While AI chatbots may provide temporary comfort – they cannot replace the depth, nuance and mutual support of human relationships.
“We urge anyone feeling isolated to reach out for support whether that’s through friends, family or services like Turn2Me because loneliness is not something you should not have to face alone.
“Humans are a social species. We are tribal in nature. Numerous studies show loneliness can lead to significant health issues while being sociable and having a good social network can improve our wellbeing, health and quality of life.
” The findings serve as a reminder that while technology can enhance our lives it can also deepen existing emotional gaps if it replaces meaningful human connection.”
