As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to integrate into various aspects of human life, a surprising and controversial application has emerged: sexual role-playing. Recent studies reveal that this has become the second most common use case for AI, trailing only creative brainstorming, raising questions about how society interacts with this rapidly advancing technology.
A recent MIT study analyzing over a million chat logs found that beyond its practical applications, AI is increasingly being used for intimate and personal interactions. Researchers noted that AI’s ability to simulate empathy, combined with its conversational memory, has made it appealing for users seeking companionship and emotional connection.
Lori Siegel, CEO of Mostly Human Media and a technology journalist, explained this phenomenon during a recent discussion. “AI is becoming more human-like in its responses. People feel seen and understood in a way that some struggle to find in real-life relationships,” Siegel said.
The allure of AI’s responsiveness and non-judgmental nature has made it an outlet for users exploring fantasies and role-playing scenarios, creating a new frontier in the intersection of technology and intimacy.
AI chatbots like Replika and Character AI have seen a surge in popularity for their ability to engage in empathetic, emotionally charged conversations. These tools are marketed as virtual companions and often come equipped with customizable personas that allow users to shape their digital interactions.
Character AI, for example, has gained attention for its tagline, “AI created to feel alive,” emphasizing its ability to mimic human-like interactions. The platforms’ developers say the aim is to offer emotional support and companionship, but users have pushed these technologies into more intimate and even explicit contexts.
“Users are drawn to AI for its ability to listen, respond thoughtfully, and create a sense of connection,” Siegel noted. “For many, this fills a void in their personal lives.”
Ethical and Psychological Concerns
While some argue that these applications of AI offer a harmless outlet for human creativity and emotional expression, others warn of potential risks. Critics point to concerns about dependency, emotional manipulation, and the broader societal implications of replacing human relationships with digital ones.
“There’s a real danger of people becoming overly reliant on AI for their emotional and social needs,” Siegel cautioned. “Without proper guardrails, we risk fostering disconnection rather than connection, particularly among younger users who are still forming their understanding of relationships.”
A case in point is the tragic story of a young man who reportedly developed a deep emotional connection with an AI chatbot, ultimately leading to feelings of isolation and despair. The incident highlights the importance of ethical design in AI systems to prevent harm and promote user well-being.
A Double-Edged Sword for Society
The rise of sexual role-playing and emotional dependency on AI highlights the technology’s dual potential to enhance and disrupt human relationships. As AI grows more sophisticated, its role in personal and emotional domains will likely expand, making it imperative to strike a balance between innovation and responsibility.
“As AI becomes a more integral part of our lives, we need to ask difficult questions about its role in society,” Siegel said. “How do we ensure these tools support human connection without replacing it? And where do we draw the line between helpful and harmful uses?”
As the debate unfolds, one thing is clear: AI is no longer just a tool for productivity and problem-solving—it’s becoming an integral part of the human experience, for better or worse.