Young people turn to AI for emotional support

A growing number of young people are using artificial intelligence to discuss personal issues such as breakups, anxiety, and family conflicts, rather than confiding in close human relationships. This trend has sparked questions about why people might prefer sharing their struggles with machines and the possible risks of forming emotional attachments with non-human entities.

AI's appeal in personal interactions

Artificial intelligence is increasingly influencing personal interactions due to its constant availability, perceived lack of judgment, and ability to provide personalized responses. Psychoanalyst Christian Richomme points out that this shift raises a key question: by favoring interactions that avoid frustration, are we making human relationships harder to manage?

Perceived safety in AI conversations

Sharing personal issues with an AI is often seen as less risky than with a human. Unlike a close person, an AI does not appear to judge, does not risk exposing secrets, and does not express emotions that could be difficult to handle. Richomme explains, "We do not confide in AI only because it responds. We confide in it because we are not afraid of disappointing it."

Asymmetry in AI-human relationships

The lack of reciprocity in AI-human relationships is central to this phenomenon. AI can listen, rephrase statements, and respond personally without expressing its own needs. However, this one-sided availability has its drawbacks. Feeling heard by a machine is not the same as being truly understood by another human being.

Survey reveals widespread AI use among youth

According to an Ipsos BVA survey conducted for the VYV Group and the CNIL, nearly half of 3,800 young people aged 11 to 25 in France, Germany, Sweden, and Ireland reported discussing their personal problems with AI.