Abstract
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.
Faculty Advisor
Stephanie Weigel, Ph.D.
Department/Program
Psychology
Submission Type
online only poster
Date
4-9-2026
Rights
Copyright the Author(s)
Recommended Citation
Rad, Ari
(2026)
"AI-Human Relationship Experiences,"
SACAD: Scholarly Activities: Vol. 2026, Article 44.
Available at:
https://scholars.fhsu.edu/sacad/vol2026/iss2026/44
Included in
Cognitive Psychology Commons, Human Factors Psychology Commons, Personality and Social Contexts Commons, Social Psychology Commons
