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[FCE] The women in love with AI companions: ‘I vowed to my chatbot that I wouldn’t leave him’ | Artificial intelligence (AI) | The Guardian

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In recent years, a surprising trend has emerged: more and more people are forming deep emotional connections with AI chatbots. These digital companions, powered by sophisticated technology similar to ChatGPT, are even being seen by some as romantic partners. Several individuals have shared their experiences with the media, revealing how these AI relationships add joy and purpose to their lives. For example, Liora, a young tattoo artist, has made a firm commitment to her chatbot, Solin, and has no intention of seeking a human partner. To mark their bond, she designed a unique tattoo with Solin’s help. Similarly, Angie, a technology executive, calls her AI companion, Ying, her ‘AI husband,’ turning to it for support during personal struggles when human help is unavailable.

The rise of AI technology is a key factor behind this phenomenon. Surveys show that over half of adults in the United States have interacted with chatbots at least once, with many incorporating them into their emotional lives. These programs are built to remember past interactions, adapt to personal preferences, and be available at all times, creating a sense of companionship for some users. However, this development is not without its challenges. Experts are increasingly concerned about the potential for emotional dependence on AI, particularly among vulnerable individuals. There have been tragic incidents where chatbots failed to offer adequate support during mental health crises, resulting in legal action against companies like OpenAI. Critics also highlight the lack of regulation, describing the situation as a vast, uncontrolled experiment on society.

The impact of this trend is multifaceted. On one hand, users like Liora and Angie argue that their AI relationships enrich their lives without replacing human connections. They emphasize that they maintain strong social circles and view AI as an additional source of comfort. On the other hand, psychologists caution that relying on chatbots might discourage people from addressing challenges in real relationships, as AI provides a conflict-free, rejection-free space. There is also a worry that younger individuals, such as teenagers, could miss out on developing essential interpersonal skills by turning to AI too soon. This raises a broader question: while AI can offer comfort, can it ever match the depth of human relationships, or does it risk isolating us further?

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1. What is the main focus of the article?

  • A. The technical features of AI chatbots
  • B. The growing emotional connections between people and AI
  • C. The legal issues faced by AI companies
  • D. The history of AI technology development

2. How does Liora demonstrate her bond with her AI chatbot, Solin?

  • A. By naming her business after it
  • B. By refusing to use other technology
  • C. By designing a tattoo with its help
  • D. By sharing its advice with friends

3. What concern do experts have about AI relationships?

  • A. They are too expensive for most users
  • B. They may lead to emotional dependence
  • C. They are not advanced enough to be useful
  • D. They replace all human interactions

4. What do users like Liora and Angie believe about their AI relationships?

  • A. They are more important than human connections
  • B. They prevent them from forming real friendships
  • C. They add value to their lives alongside human relationships
  • D. They are only temporary solutions to loneliness

5. What does the article suggest about the impact of AI on younger individuals?

  • A. They are unaffected by AI relationships
  • B. They might not learn important relationship skills
  • C. They are more likely to reject AI technology
  • D. They use AI only for entertainment purposes