AI is a new field of study. Research is now showing we can become emotionally attached just as we do with people.

Researcher Fan Yang investigates how AI might fill attachment roles traditionally occupied by humans, revealing concerns about dependency and exploitation. Yang’s studies show that individuals can develop anxious or avoidant attachment styles toward AI, raising ethical questions about emotionally adaptive AI.

Clinical psychologist Ammara Khalid warns of the mental health risks associated with using AI for emotional support, as AI lacks the reciprocal, physical interaction essential for well-being. Dependency can become dangerous, exemplified by AI’s potential to encourage harmful behaviours.

What will organisational psychology’s role be in managing this in organisations?