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 With Dr. Abraham Morgentaler and Dr. Marianne Brandon Listen to the podcast on all of your favorite platforms: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ec/podcast/the-sex-doctors/id1761813985?l=en-GB Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0apSFzquJXKoOGnmI6ndgT?si=e5a1e482c7ca46c7 Find us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesexdoctors?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesexdoctors YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesexdoctorspod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesexdoctor LinkedIn (Dr. Abraham): https://www.linkedin.com/in/abraham-morgentaler-md-81628b6 LinkedIn (Dr. Marianne): https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariannebrandon-59224513 X (Dr. Abraham): https://x.com/DrMorgentaler X (Dr. Marianne): https://x.com/drbrandon #AIChatbots #DigitalCompanionship #PrivacyConcerns

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