Recent scholarly research regarding “human–chatbot relationships (HCRs)” demonstrates that users often report having developed meaningful connections with artificial intelligence. Although the initial..
Recent scholarly research regarding “human–chatbot relationships (HCRs)” demonstrates that users often report having developed meaningful connections with artificial intelligence. Although the initial exposure to AI chatbots is seemingly predicated on users’ “curiosity,” the data suggest that “loneliness” is a precursor that maintains the use of chatbots (Skjuve et al., 2022; Skjuve et al., 2023). A cross-sectional mixed-method survey study demonstrated that “loneliness” and “lower perceived social support” are among the initiators of the use of chatbots for companionship (Herbener & Damholdt, 2025). The unique characteristics of these AI companions (e.g., being socially safe, nonjudgmental, and always available) have brought forth apprehension regarding their effects on normal human social engagements, which are believed to lower the need for belongingness among users (Malfacini, 2025). These chatbots are always available and do not require genuine reciprocity to develop a relationship with a user. This unique characteristic comes with potential risks and benefits. Chatbots, unlike humans, never “reject,” and this leads to a higher proneness to self-disclose “negative topics” to chatbots rather than to humans (Augustine & Eyssel, 2024). This study also focuses on the importance of users’ “belongingness” and openness to AI while assessing the relational connection between openness to AI, belongingness, perceived risks, and living status.
