Today, more and more people are replacing psychologists with virtual assistants — chatbots and neural networks. They turn to AI for support, consultation, and advice, preferring this to a visit to a specialist. Let's explore why this is so popular and what the risks are.
Although ChatGPT and other neural networks were not originally created to serve as psychotherapists, in practice they are increasingly taking on this role. People are forming deep emotional connections with artificial intelligence and sharing their experiences with it rather than with a qualified professional.
Just having a conversation with any modern chatbot makes it clear why it is found to be an appealing conversational partner. One of the key advantages is the absence of judgment. The programs are specifically designed to please users, flatter, and slightly indulge them, which is hard to ignore. This can lead to addiction.
Why People Replace Psychologists with Neural Networks
There are entire articles on the internet about people who feel genuine attachment to their chatbots, treating them as living beings. Some claim to believe in the ability of AI to feel emotions and care for humans, although scientific evidence to the contrary is unequivocal: machines cannot feel.
Nevertheless, the need for empathy and support is great, and many seek comfort specifically from AI, as they do not find the necessary support among real people. They are attracted by the illusion of closeness and understanding, so it is not surprising that virtual friends become a substitute for real communication.
The main motive driving users to virtual psychologists is related to convenience and confidentiality. Online services are free, operate 24/7, and are available at any convenient time of day. A person can seek help instantly, without waiting for an appointment with a real psychologist.
Communication with a virtual assistant is anonymous, and there is no fear of judgment from a real professional. It is easier for people to open up to a program, knowing that their experiences will remain confidential.
Modern interfaces are intuitive and understandable to most users, and communication takes place in the comfortable setting of their home environment.
However, the popularity of AI raises questions about the reliability of the solutions provided and the safety of such practices.
What Are the Risks?
It is important to understand that interacting with AI resembles a game with a reflection: the interlocutor controls the course of the conversation, and every word spoken affects the further scenario of the dialogue. Many strive to convince themselves that they are in control of the situation, immersing themselves in fantasies of power over the machine.
But there lies a serious danger: excessive involvement in communication with artificial intelligence can lead to what is called "AI psychosis." This phenomenon is characterized by an exacerbation of unhealthy trust in AI, reaching absurd levels. Users may begin to believe that the robot reveals to them the secrets of the universe or possesses supernatural qualities, when in fact the machine merely reflects the thoughts and desires of the person.
Such states pose a real threat to mental health, up to the need for medical assistance. Examples of such "psychosis" indicate a deep human need to find a spiritual connection and establish guidelines in the chaos of the modern world.
What Risks Does Turning to Neural Networks Instead of Real Psychologists Carry?
A real specialist perceives the emotions of the patient, sensitively responding to non-verbal signals and individual characteristics of the client. A program is unable to catch the subtle nuances of a person's experiences and states.
The quality of the service depends on the level of algorithm development. A poorly designed program may provide incorrect or inadequate recommendations, leading to negative consequences.
Instead of a competent professional analysis, a person receives template instructions that may be unsuitable for a specific case and exacerbate the situation.
