How will AI companions change our human relationships? With Ashleigh Golden, PsyD, and Rachel Wood, PhD

The rise of AI companions and their impact on human relationships is examined, questioning whether these AI interactions constitute infidelity, weaken social skills, or offer beneficial practice for real-world connections. Experts Dr. Ashleigh Golden and Dr. Rachel Wood explore the differences between general-purpose AI and dedicated AI companions, noting the blurring lines in how users seek emotional support from both. They cite statistics indicating widespread use, especially among teens, with AI potentially becoming a primary source of mental health support. The discussion covers the lack of genuine empathy in AI, the one-sided nature of these relationships, and the potential for "AI psychosis" or entanglement, emphasizing the importance of reality-checking AI interactions with other people. Concerns about de-skilling in social interactions are weighed against the potential for AI to serve as a rehearsal space for difficult conversations.