1 in 7 Young Adults in Relationships Use AI Companions, With 69% Hiding Extent
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · May 29
1 in 7 Young Adults in Relationships Use AI Companions, With 69% Hiding Extent
4 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · May 29
More than 50% of partnered young adults who use romantic AI bots partly or wholly conceal that use from their partners, and 69% say it is important their partners not know the full extent.
The same research found 1 in 7 young adults in serious relationships regularly interact with romantic AI companions, while 20% to 30% have tried one at least once.
The report links that behavior to weaker relationship outcomes, saying regular interaction with romantic bots is associated with a 46% lower likelihood of being in a stable relationship.
The opinion piece argues the trend follows a generation raised on online pornography, where customization, secrecy and normalization of digital sexual habits were already widespread.
As 1 in 7 young adults in relationships use AI companions, what are they finding that their human partners cannot provide?
When an AI offers a 'perfect' partner, are we training ourselves to become incapable of real human love and connection?