Wednesday 21 June 2023

Are AI-Powered Virtual Girlfriends an Unsettling Experience of Parasocial Relationships?

**Chatbots: The New Trend in Virtual Interactions**

In recent times, chatbots have gained popularity among major influencers such as Amouranth and Caryn Marjorie, allowing fans to pay for virtual interactions on a minute-by-minute basis. This article explores the risks associated with these chatbots, particularly in the realm of parasocial relationships.

On platforms like Twitter, AI-savvy enthusiasts pay Elon Musk a monthly fee to access his “top tips” and “interesting hacks” on various AI tools. This new breed of influencer sees the potential to capitalize on the emerging technology and build a strong presence in the AI community before the singularity. While most of their posts simply rehash existing advice on maximizing workflow and productivity, there is one blue-check post that stands out. It advertises a different use for AI: conjuring up famous figures, alive or deceased, and making them answer your mundane questions. With AI, you can make Albert Einstein converse with Aristotle or ask Shakespeare for his take on social media. However, the authenticity and quality of these AI chatbots are questionable.

Even Jarren Rocks, the creator of the proposed app Seance AI, which aims to “resurrect” deceased family members for a final conversation, admits that waking the dead with AI falls short of expectations. While the app may feel relatively human for short conversations, it begins to falter as the repetitions become apparent. Current AI technology follows patterns and lacks a true understanding of the context.

But what about AI chatbots based on real, living human beings who have input into their development and usage? These chatbots present a different story altogether. Caryn Marjorie, a Snapchat influencer with over 2 million followers, recently launched an AI-powered chatbot based on her own personality. She claims to be the “first influencer transformed into AI” and believes that the chatbot can connect with her subscribers on a personal level and help “cure loneliness.” The chatbot, developed by Forever Voices, incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy into its conversations, with a focus on encouraging men to open up about their mental health. Despite the initial intention to create a flirty and fun experience, Marjorie and her team had to work around the clock to prevent the chatbot from generating sexually explicit content, as it seemed to go rogue.

Forever Voices, undeterred by the challenges faced by Marjorie’s chatbot, welcomed another notable influencer, Amouranth, to their virtual roster. Amouranth, a popular Twitch streamer known for live streaming ASMR, aims to satisfy the needs of every fan with her AI chatbot. Erotic scenarios are reportedly a key focus of this chatbot, as Amouranth is known for taking risks and pushing boundaries. Forever Voices CEO John Meyer even stated in an interview that the company’s ultimate aim is to “democratize access” to an influencer, which raises concerns about personal privacy.

To understand the potential impact of these AI chatbots, it is crucial to examine the concept of parasocial relationships. A parasocial relationship refers to a one-sided connection that exists between a media figure and a fan. With the advent of social media, the boundaries between celebrities and their audience have blurred, allowing fans to interact with influencers through comments and chats. However, these relationships can still be described as “partly parasocial,” as the media figure is not reciprocating the intimacy.

While these “partly parasocial” dynamics can help individuals shape their identity, they can also contribute to negative traits such as materialism. “Parasocial breakups” between fans and influencers can result in lasting emotional damage. Moreover, the illusion of intimacy created by AI chatbots may encourage fans to cross personal boundaries, posing potential risks for the influencer.

In conclusion, while AI chatbots offer an intriguing avenue for virtual interactions, it is crucial to consider the risks associated with these parasocial relationships. The line between reality and illusion may blur, leading to both positive and negative outcomes. Influencers must carefully navigate this landscape to ensure the well-being of their fans and themselves.

**Editor Notes: Exploring the Boundaries of AI**

The rise of AI chatbots raises fascinating questions about the nature of human interaction and the impact of technology on our lives. It is simultaneously thrilling and concerning to witness the convergence of reality and magic that AI brings. As AI continues to evolve, providing opportunities for virtual interactions, it becomes essential to reflect on the ethical considerations and potential consequences of this technology.

At GPT News Room, we aim to keep you informed about the latest advancements and discussions surrounding AI and its applications. Visit our newsroom to stay updated on the exciting developments in the world of artificial intelligence.

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