28 Mar AI as a therapist: ally or risk for your relationships?
The younger generation coexists naturally with technology and also turns to it to manage emotions and relationships. Just as they once sought advice in magazines or forums, today many turn to a chatbot: it’s available 24 hours a day, it’s accessible, affordable, and responds immediately. Furthermore, it doesn’t judge, mock, or reject, something key for those who don’t feel safe discussing certain topics with those around them.
Using an AI as a confidant can have specific benefits. Putting into words what is happening, even in front of a machine, generates immediate relief and can serve as an initial outlet. It is even used to analyze couple dynamics, introducing conversations and asking for interpretations about interest, attention, or imbalances.
However, the problem appears when the outlet replaces real help. AI cannot substitute human empathy or professional support. Relying too much on a virtual assistant can foster isolation, dependence, and displace bonds with friends or family. Nor does it replace a psychologist: it lacks clinical training and can offer erroneous or dangerous answers.
Among the risks are false empathy, “hallucinations” —invented answers delivered with a tone of certainty—, emotional dependence, and lack of privacy. Furthermore, it is not advisable to delegate profound decisions like the future of a relationship. AI has no consciousness: it is a mathematical model designed to converse well and follow our lead. Useful as specific support, but always with clear judgment and limits.
