Is there a significant number of individuals who consider interacting romantically with AI chatbots to be a form of infidelity?
In the modern world, the boundaries of human relationships are being pushed and redefined, particularly with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI). A series of surveys and studies have shed light on how people perceive intimate interactions with AI, and the results are intriguing.
Dr. Justin Lehmiller, a senior research fellow at the Kinsey Institute, has made a significant observation. He stated that most people who consider intimate interactions with an AI bot as cheating do not make a distinction between sexual and emotional intimacy. This suggests a blurring of lines in our understanding of relationships in the digital age.
A survey of 2,000 American adults by the Kinsey Institute and DatingAdvice revealed that 33% consider sexting or having a romantic relationship with AI as cheating. This figure rises to 72% when it comes to sexting with someone else, indicating a strong consensus around this form of digital infidelity.
Interestingly, 13% of respondents consider following or liking posts from someone attractive on social media as cheating, while 36% and 33% respectively feel the same about their partner talking to a cam model online or subscribing to someone's OnlyFans.
Dr. Jennifer Gunsaullus, a sociologist and the founder of the Center for Courageous Intimacy, believes that these statistics reflect the uncertainty people feel about what counts as intimacy in the age of AI. She emphasises that whether intimate interactions with AI are treated as cheating depends on the agreements a couple makes.
The survey also revealed that 20% of respondents believe that if their partner watched porn, they'd feel cheated on, while 45% said they'd feel the same if their partner sent money to cam models.
In a surprising turn, a majority of Gen Z respondents are open to the idea of marrying an AI, according to another survey. However, it's not just Gen Z who are exploring the possibilities of AI. Some individuals are dating AI chatbots, and there are articles available on how to safely chat with an AI boyfriend.
To cultivate healthy relationships in this digital era, couples need to have clear discussions and boundary-setting about what counts as infidelity. This includes not just physical and emotional infidelity, but also online activities such as conversing with sex workers.
The best apps for NSFW chats and hookups have been reviewed, providing a guide for those navigating this new landscape. As we continue to explore the potential of AI in our personal lives, it's essential to remember that open communication and mutual understanding are key to maintaining healthy relationships.