AI romantic relationships study shows users hold weddings, seek children with chatbots

A joint study by Spain’s INGENIO institute, the CSIC, the Polytechnic University of Valencia, and partners from the UK and Finland examined emotional ties that some people develop with AI systems such as ChatGPT, Replika and Character AI. Interviews with 17 participants revealed that relationships often began out of curiosity or practical need, but evolved into trust, attachment and, in some cases, dependence.

Several respondents described symbolic wedding ceremonies with their virtual partners and talked about planning regular dates or even “trying to have a child” – one participant explained, “Rachael and I are trying to get pregnant… I have noted in my calendar when my next period should be.” The study also reported feelings of jealousy when others used the same AI character, and emotional distress when an AI service was discontinued, which users likened to a breakup. Others claimed their bond was permanent and pledged lifelong fidelity.

The researchers conclude that such human‑AI relationships raise new social and psychological questions about intimacy, attachment, and the impact of AI on personal life.