Artificial Intelligence has quickly infiltrated our everyday lives, allowing us to outsource simple cognitive tasks such as creating grocery lists, designing workout routines, and writing emails. This has allowed us to quickly adapt to our ever-changing world by saving time and energy on seemingly tedious and mundane tasks. However, adults and youth are also turning to AI for more complex, emotional tasks such as emotional support, relationship guidance, conflict resolution, and more. AI is often taking the place of personal relationships, and in many cases, even in the place of licensed, human therapists.
Although the low cost and easy accessibility of chatbots may seem to be fulfilling an unmet demand for therapy, particularly among youth, there are many ethical and emotional concerns attached to its increasing and continued usage.
Reliance vs Boundaries
AI powered therapy is available to individuals 24/7, and is void of boundaries, and attempts to provide an immediate fix to problems. Both of which may create a dependency on AI the longer it’s used, as well as unrealistic expectations and lack of fulfillment in human relationships. Additionally, AI does not have a code of ethics, a conscience, or empathy for its users, making it unable to properly relate to the human brain and/or feelings. Licensed, human therapists take time to help clients navigate and work through issues, and set long-term goals, while fostering healthy connections, and expectations. Unlike AI, they are trained to teach and maintain boundaries, encourage independence, and protect the autonomy and wellbeing of their clients.
Avoiding Judgement vs Developing Social Skills
Growing up with social media, youth are increasingly concerned about feeling judged and rejected by peers. The idea of using AI in place of a therapist may feel “less judgmental”, and thus safer for youth. However, human interactions and addressing feelings and emotions are part of the human experience. Building a relationship with another person, such as in a therapeutic setting, can allow youth to acknowledge, address, and unpack these feelings, build resiliency, and help practice and develop emotional and social skills long term.
Validating vs Challenging
When using chatbots, many individuals experience validation, or an echo chamber of their own beliefs. Chatbots are not designed to encourage reflection, challenge, or hold users accountable. Licensed, human therapists are trained to challenge clients’ thinking when appropriate and encourage self-reflection for personal growth.
AI vs Human Relationships
Although AI can be a useful tool, it should not be used in place of interpersonal or therapeutic relationships. In other words, AI is not meant to be a replacement for a therapist, partner, doctor, or friend. AI cannot provide empathy, patience, or compassion. It cannot sit with us in silence in times of grief, challenge unhealthy behaviors or ways of thinking.
Human relationships are the fabric of our communities. They’re strengthened in shared experiences, communication, providing support, navigating challenges, and the list goes on. In turn, these human interactions and experiences help build social skills and connections, and allow us, particularly youth, to feel less isolated and alone.
AI literacy is essential to helping us understand best practices to utilize this tool to our benefit, such as providing basic strategies for coping, types of meditation, and other skills. Additionally, it’s important that we make sure youth are informed and supported by providing safe, non-judgmental spaces for youth to talk, share their experiences and feelings, while also encouraging engagement with a licensed, human therapist for healing, healthy development, and growth.
Leave A Comment