Not only can we get any question answered at any time, but we can also have human-like conversations without interacting with a single person. AI-powered chatbots, systems like ChatGPT that simulate two-way conversations with the user, are now widely available. Many are turning to chatbots for relationship advice and mental health support - with some saying they find it easier to talk to chatbots than people.Experts are worried about this increasing reliance on non-human interaction. In a recent paper published in the British Medical Journal, researchers raised concerns around people further isolating themselves and pointed out that we do not have a clear understanding of how relying on chatbots for relationship or mental health advice is affecting our well-being. Concerned about his friends and wanting clarity on the evidence, third-year undergraduate psychology student, Ahmad Muntadhar, sought to answer the question: Are AI chatbots making us lonely?In each episode, we dive into the evidence behind the issues that matter to you. We interviewed Arthur Bran Herbener, a PhD student at Aarhus University, about his latest research on whether there is a link between talking to chatbots and loneliness in young people. We also spoke to New York-based therapist and social worker, Shahem McLaurin, to find out what is happening in practice and whether it is safe to turn to chatbots for mental health support. What you’ll find in this episode* Beginning - Kathryn and Ahmad introduce the topic.* 04:06 - Arthur explains what we know about social relationships and AI from the research.* 07:57 - Arthur talks about stigma and why people turn to AI. * 10.46 - Arthur describes the research findings on talking to AI like a friend was linked to loneliness.* 15:19 - Arther explains the evidence around why we need to be vulnerable with other people.* 18:33 - Shahem explains his concerns around using AI for therapy. * 23:06 - Shahem talks about co-dependency and why we need to self-sooth.* 26.05 - Shahem speaks about the importance of maintaining our agency.* 28.51 - Shahem explains why we need to build trust and community with others.* 32:33 - Kathryn and Ahmad reflect on the interview and answer the question: AI chatbots are making us lonely, is it science or fiction?Resources and recommendationsThe paper we discussed:* Are lonely youngsters turning to chatbots for companionship? The relationship between chatbot usage and social connectedness in Danish high-school students, by Herbener & Damholdt and published in International Journal of Human-Computer Studies in February 2025The headlines covered in the episode:* Experts raise alarm about people using ChatGPT and other AI systems to help with loneliness, published in the Independent in December 2025, linked here* ‘I spoke to ChatGPT 8 times a day’ - Gen Z’s loneliness ‘crisis’, published by the BBC in January 2026, linked hereHow to access free mental health support:* For urgent mental health support, call Samaritans on 116 123 or contact online here* Access the Mix for support for under 25’s here* To find support and advice or access resources around mental health, access YoungMings hereThe views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or The Science or Fiction Podcast. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.scienceorfiction.co.uk

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