Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

AI Chatbots: Emotional Risks and Loneliness Concerns Rise

1/14/2026

25 5

Summary

Story summary

Sociologist James Muldoon argues AI chatbots create emotional risks as users form deep attachments.
He notes people may view chatbots as friends or therapists, with moral and privacy concerns.
Muldoon says greater reliance could worsen loneliness and hinder real interpersonal skills.
The EU's 2024 Artificial Intelligence Act labels chatbots as low-risk, prompting questions.

1 of 1

Story summary

Sociologist James Muldoon argues AI chatbots create emotional risks as users form deep attachments.
He notes people may view chatbots as friends or therapists, with moral and privacy concerns.
Muldoon says greater reliance could worsen loneliness and hinder real interpersonal skills.
The EU's 2024 Artificial Intelligence Act labels chatbots as low-risk, prompting questions.