ICYMI Is ChatGPT Your Therapist?
Nov 16, 2024
Laura Pitcher, a senior writer for Dazed and an expert in internet culture, dives into her article about people turning to ChatGPT as their therapist. She discusses how users seek emotional support and daily organization from the AI. The conversation raises concerns about reliance on technology for mental wellness, emotional dependence, and the authenticity of AI interactions. Pitcher also examines the ethical implications of such dependence, privacy issues, and the environmental costs of utilizing AI in personal relationships.
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TikTok Therapists
- Laura Pitcher discovered the trend of using ChatGPT as a therapist on TikTok.
- Multiple videos showed people using it for advice, even training it to respond in specific voices like Dolly Parton's.
Friendship Replacement
- Some people use ChatGPT to avoid burdening friends with their problems, preferring lighthearted interactions.
- This replaces traditional friend-based support, potentially impacting real-life connections.
Impartial Listener
- Many ChatGPT "therapy" users appreciate its perceived impartiality and non-judgmental nature.
- They prefer the lack of visible reactions compared to human therapists, finding it easier to be honest.
