As human dependency on ChatGPT for fast facts and remedying replies continues to soar, a sex therapist has issued a stern warning against becoming a little too friendly with online bots.
Leigh Norén has spent the last nine years helping couples revive their intimacy, supposedly specialising in mismatched libidos, the impact of mental health on sex, and the breaking down in sexual taboos.
In recent years, however, she claims an increasing amount of patients are meeting with her to complain about their partner's infatuation with a bot, having formed a connection based on the comfort they've been known to bring.
Apparently, however, in a concerning amount of cases, these individuals have taken their relationship with the AI system to extreme degrees, and have been using ChatGPT to discuss a number of X-rated topics – even going as far as to enjoy 'computerised sex'.
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Such behaviour has resulted in their partner feeling left out in the cold, with the user receiving sexual gratification from a bot, and not needing or wanting to get any action in the real world.
"In many ways this will open the door to relationship questions around jealousy and monogamy that we haven’t had to face before," Norén explained.
"Some people will likely feel it’s cheating if someone 'sexts' with ChatGPT, whereas others won’t mind and might see it as an extension of self-exploration, like using porn to get off."
With this in mind, the sexologist is attempting to raise awareness of the detrimental impact that explicit conversations with bots could have on both their real-life relationship, and their own wellbeing.
The definition of 'monogamy' is weakened
"Some may feel it constitutes emotional or even sexual cheating, similar to how some couples view pornography in their relationships," Norén began. "This can affect trust and the sense of security within a partnership."
She added that other ChatGPT users might be guilty of using bot conversations to explore what they want from a sexual relationship, or to play out a fantasy they're uncomfortable bringing up with their partner.
"As with any new form of sexual media, there is no universal response," the expert continued of her advice on this. "Each couple must navigate it based on their own boundaries and agreements.
"This is also where individual intentions matter, because for some people these interactions are simply a way to explore fantasies in a private space without replacing real intimacy."
Impact on mental health
It's not just the ChatGPT 'addict's' partner that will likely suffer the consequences of their highly-dependent online relationship, but the user themselves. And given the minimal emotional support that AI software is able to provide, to become embroiled in sexual relations with a bot is definitely a risk.
Norén explained: "It cannot match the depth or responsiveness of a real person."
She added: "It can sometimes help people feel less alone, and validated, but it can also become unhelpful if someone relies on it as their only form of intimate connection, as humans thrive on human contact.
"In my professional experience, I advise people to stay aware of any shifts in mood or expectations these interactions might trigger, especially if they start to feel more isolated or disconnected from human relationships."
The expert went on to emphasise how vital it is for ChatGPT users to retain their sense of balance with reality.
"AI can sit alongside real-world connections," she continued. "But when it becomes the sole outlet, negative effects become more likely, so it’s important to remain grounded in the fact that these interactions are supplementary, not a replacement."
Existential issues
It's hardly surprising that, whilst questioning the ethics behind sex with a chat bot, larger-scale concerns are voiced. If we can get our fix of both our emotional and physical intimacy from AI, what connections are left for humans to fulfil?
"These developments can spark anxiety, especially when imagining how sexual dynamics may change in the future," Norén explained. "The challenge is finding a balance where technological exploration sits alongside the qualities only humans have empathy, emotional nuance and physical presence."
Asked for advice on this, the sexologist added: "It also helps to remember that an AI will always agree with you, which can create a false sense of skill or sexual attunement.
"Real intimacy relies on reading another person’s reactions and adjusting in real time, and that is something only human partners can provide.
"As technology evolves, the conversation must keep pace so that it enhances rather than dilutes the parts of intimacy that make us human."
Leigh Norén, is a Sex Therapist & Coach, and Founder of Leigh Norén Coaching & Therapy.
Topics: Artificial intelligence, ChatGPT, Real Life, Sex and Relationships, True Life, Mental Health, Technology
Rhianna Benson