OpenAI acknowledges ChatGPT addiction replacing real social interaction
OpenAI conducted a large-scale study revealing that frequent use of ChatGPT fosters emotional dependence, leading users to withdraw from close relationships. Over 4,000 users participated, with nearly 1,000 using ChatGPT daily for 28 days under controlled conditions, uncovering worrying signs.
The findings showed that heavy users became lonelier and reduced contact with family and friends as the AI effectively replaced live communication. They exhibited addiction symptoms such as pathological attachment, cognitive and emotional impairments, and loss of control over usage time. Most users failed to recognize the problem and even regarded ChatGPT as a “friend.” Consequently, OpenAI developed tools to detect signs of emotional dependency akin to drug addiction.
Moving forward, these tools may be integrated into ChatGPT’s user interface to promptly identify excessive dependency and encourage a healthier balance between real-life interactions and AI engagement.
