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In this episode, Dr. Brandon and Dr. Morgentaler talk about how chatbots are becoming digital lovers and emotional crutches — and why that’s both fascinating and deeply worrying for real human relationships.
- 00:33 – The Rise of Chatbots: Dr. Brandon and Dr. Morgentaler talk about how chatbots are becoming more realistic — and how they’re designed to build emotional bonds for profit.
- 02:23 – Impact on Relationships: They also explore how young people are turning to chatbots for love, comfort, and even sex — and what that means for real relationships.
- 05:39 – Real-Life Examples and Concerns: They also share wild stories from real users, plus stats that show how many people prefer AI companions over actual humans.
- 10:46 – Chatbot Demonstration: They also test one live on the podcast, showing how calm, kind, and dangerously convincing a chatbot can sound.
- 22:13 – Final Thoughts and Conclusion: They wrap up by warning parents to talk to their kids and reminding everyone: nothing replaces real human connection.
Resources
Skjuve, M. B., Følstad, A., Fostervold, K. I., & Brandtzaeg, P. B. (2022). A longitudinal study of human–chatbot relationships. International Journal of Human–Computer Studies, 168, Article 102903. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijhcs.2022.102903
Willoughby, B. J., Carroll, J. S., Dover, C. R., & Hakala, R. H. (2025). Counterfeit Connections: The Rise of Romantic AI Companions and AI Sexualized Media Among the Rising Generation [Survey report]. Wheatley Institute, Brigham Young University. Retrieved from https://wheatley.byu.edu/Counterfeit-Connections-AI-Romantic-Companions
