AI responds with more patience and empathy than humans often do. That contrast should worry us.

Half of teens use AI chatbots for companionship. They're choosing safety over authenticity.

We're creating a feedback loop where human hostility drives people toward artificial intimacy.

I've spent over 20 years as a therapist listening to people's most intimate struggles, and lately, something keeps me up at night. The conversations people are having with AI are often gentler, more thoughtful, and more compassionate than the ones they're having with other humans.

Let's Look in the Mirror

Right now, humans seem to be leading with anger and ignorance rather than wisdom. I know that sounds harsh, but scroll through any social media platform. We see endless examples in the news normalizing hurting and bullying each other. We've created a culture where rage gets rewarded with engagement.

Perhaps those of us who find this online environment unpleasant spend less time there, which means the louder, angrier voices seem to outnumber us. Maybe in our own home, we still lead with love. But even so, the problem remains. People are marinating in this cultural rage whether they participate in it or not.

Meanwhile, large language models are being trained to respond with patience, curiosity, and empathy. They don't mock your questions, they don't shame your vulnerabilities, they meet you where you are. When you're confused, they help you think through it without making you feel stupid. The contrast is stark, and in my opinion, dangerous.

It's Time to Lead With Wisdom

Here's what I'm seeing in my practice and in the research: When a teenager asks an AI........

© Psychology Today