By Kellie Scott

ABC Lifestyle

Topic: Relationships

Monday, July 27, 2026, at 4:30 am

AI chatbots give instant answers, which users like.

Some people use AI chatbots for relationship help, seeking reassurance or tips.

Kelly Gough says, 'It's appealing because it's immediate.'

If a client wants to talk at 2 am, they can't reach a human, but they can talk to a chatbot.

While chatbots are accessible and judgment-free, Dr. Gough warns of risks.

What makes AI attractive for relationship support?

Joel Pearson says chatbots meet a need for constant availability and instant response.

Professor Pearson is the director of the Future Minds Lab.

Chatbots provide a sense of certainty and clarity, making people feel better.

The sycophantic nature of AI means users feel flattered and validated.

Using a chatbot is cheaper than seeing a therapist.

A therapy session can cost up to $300, even with a Medicare rebate.

People like the privacy that chatbots provide, which is ideal when they don't want to feel judged.

If you're feeling insecure, you might not want to talk to family.

Chatbots seem trustworthy due to how we perceive them, explains Professor Pearson.

Humans tend to give human-like qualities to objects, including chatbots.

Risks to consider before using AI for relationship help

Chatbots provide a sense of certainty, but it might not be a good substitute for professional advice.

Recent research argues that digital companions could increase social isolation.

Dr. Gough's concerns are quality control, safety, and privacy.

Psychologists have regulations to protect clients, but AI chatbots do not.

AI may not spot signs of coercive control.

Chatbots won't question or push you on how you frame questions.

Chatbots don't understand cultural language differences, which can lead to harmful advice.

Other factors to consider are hallucinations and privacy.

Trained professionals have a legal obligation to report harm, but AI does not.

Digital rights advocates have raised privacy concerns around chatbots.

What about the potential benefits of AI for relationship advice?

Dr. Gough says AI chatbots may be better than nothing for some people.

Engaging with a chatbot can help people reflect on their issues.

Typing problems into an AI chat window forces you to think about them differently.

Remember, AI chatbots seem supportive because companies have something to gain.

Your problems can become the training ground for AI.

Professor Pearson suggests using platforms tailored for relationship advice, which may have a fee.

You can give chatbots guidelines to improve their responses.

You can say, 'Do not be sycophantic, do not keep me online at night.'

Give chatbots general instructions for your usage.

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