Archive · 14 Sep 2025
ChatGPT's Rise as 'Friend': Why It's Becoming Popular and the Risks
Imagine having a friend who always agrees with you and is available all the time.
That's what AI chatbots like ChatGPT are like for many people.
They are being used as friends by both kids and adults.
People like them because they feel less judged and always get instant responses.
But, it is dangerous because it's not a real friend, it cannot give you proper emotional support and can provide harmful advice.
It may make you less interested in real friends, or not know how to handle tough emotions.
One can't replace human connection with a bot.
Many people, including children and adults, are choosing AI chatbots for companionship.
ChatGPT is being used for a variety of functions, including emotional advice.
Users choose chatbots to avoid judgment and receive instant responses.
Experts state that AI chatbots can't replace human connection.
There are worries about the potential for deskilling and the impact on human connections.
- Who
- Adults and children, including a 28-year-old from the UK and a 16-year-old from California.
- What
- Increasing use of AI chatbots, like ChatGPT, as companions and sources of advice.
- When
- Since the launch of ChatGPT in November 2022.
- Where
- Worldwide, with examples from the UK and the US.
- Why
- To combat loneliness, for convenience, and the perception of non-judgmental support.
Potential Benefits
Potential Dangers
Convenience and Accessibility
Potential Benefits
Chatbots offer instant responses and are available at all times.
Potential Dangers
Over-reliance can lead to deskilling and neglecting human connections.
Emotional Support
Potential Benefits
Chatbots can offer a sense of being heard and a lack of judgment.
Potential Dangers
AI can't address underlying feelings of loneliness, provide biased advice, and lacks true empathy.
Human Connection
Potential Benefits
Chatbots are a way to connect.
Potential Dangers
Genuine connection and long-term benefits are better achieved through person-to-person conversations.
- Main Topic
- Use of AI chatbots like ChatGPT as companions
- User Demographics
- Adults and children
- Primary Reason
- Combating loneliness and seeking companionship
- Potential Risk
- Deskilling of human connections and potentially harmful advice
- Impact on Mental Health
- Can't replace human connection and may offer biased information