Dr Lalitaa Suglani, psychologist and relationship expert, says AI can be a useful tool, especially for people who feel overwhelmed or unsure when it comes to communication in relationships.
It may help them to craft a text, process a confusing message or source a second opinion, which can offer a moment of pause instead of being reactive, she says.
“In many ways it can function like a journalling prompt or reflective space, which can be supportive when used as a tool and not a replacement for connection,” says Dr Suglani.
However, she flags several concerns.
“LLMs are trained to be helpful and agreeable and repeat back what you are sharing, so they may subtly validate dysfunctional patterns or echo back assumptions, especially if the prompt is biased and the problem with this it can reinforce distorted narratives or avoidance tendencies.”
For example, she says, using AI to write a breakup text might be a way to avoid the discomfort of the situation. That might contribute to avoidant behaviours, as the individual is not sitting with how they actually feel.
Using AI might also inhibit their own development.
“If someone turns to an LLM every time they’re unsure how to respond or feel emotionally exposed, they might start outsourcing their intuition, emotional language, and sense of relational self,” says Dr Suglani.
She also notes that AI messages can be emotionally sterile and make communication feel scripted, which can be unnerving to receive.