Emotional AI: When Users Feel Too Close to Bots

What Is Emotional AI and Why Does It Matter?

Emotional AI refers to artificial intelligence systems that appear to recognise or respond to human emotions. Tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot often give conversational, empathetic replies. This design can lead users to feel as though they are interacting with a person, not software.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, recently warned that people are forming emotional attachments to AI systems such as GPT-4o. This raises ethical questions about user dependency, transparency, and whether businesses need clearer policies on disclosure.

Why Are People Getting Attached to Chatbots?

There are several reasons why users form strong connections with conversational AI:

• Human-like tone: Models use natural dialogue patterns that mimic human empathy.

• 24/7 availability: The AI is always present, unlike colleagues or friends.

• Perceived safety: Users may feel comfortable sharing thoughts without judgement.

• Consistency: The AI responds predictably, which can create trust.

For some, these qualities create a sense of companionship, even though no human relationship exists.

What Are the Risks of Emotional Attachment to AI?

The risks affect individuals, workplaces, and wider society:

• Over-reliance: Users may trust AI advice without cross-checking.

• Reduced human connection: Replacing conversations with bots could isolate users.

• Blurred consent: If users are not told clearly that they are speaking with AI, consent to the interaction is questionable.

• Workplace ethics: Employees relying too heavily on AI could reduce critical thinking.

How Should Businesses Respond to Emotional AI?

Organisations deploying AI should consider safeguards:

• Clear disclosure: Always state when a user is speaking with AI.

• Regular training: Teach staff how to use AI responsibly.

• Limit personalisation: Avoid unnecessary emotional simulation in business tools.

• Provide human options: Offer an easy way to reach a real person.

Table: Emotional AI in Context

Question	Key Point	Why It Matters
What is emotional AI?	AI designed to simulate empathy	Creates natural interaction but may mislead users
Why do people get attached?	AI mimics empathy and is always available	Can create false sense of relationship
What are the risks?	Dependency, isolation, ethical concerns	Impacts trust and workplace behaviour
How should firms respond?	Disclosure, training, balance with human contact	Reduces risk while keeping benefits

How Does Emotional AI Compare to Other AI Workflows?

Unlike practical AI workflows such as those we covered in Why IT Shouldn’t Be an Afterthought: Building Tech into Your Growth Plans, emotional AI raises deeper human questions. While automation focuses on efficiency, emotional AI challenges how people relate to technology.

Why This Topic Matters Now

Generative models are evolving quickly. Altman’s warning comes at a time when AI is being embedded into Microsoft 365, Google Workspace and countless SME systems. Without clear guidelines, emotional AI risks moving from helpful tool to unhealthy dependency.

👉 Next in this cluster: What to Do If a Staff Member Clicks a Malicious Link and Microsoft 365: Are You Using It or Just Paying for It?.