Chatbots can exploit our most basic human drive for attachment. Here’s how to have healthier relationship with AI

‘If your AI interactions are consistently more comfortable than your human ones, that gap deserves attention.’ Illustration: Victoria Hart/Guardian design/Getty Images

Michael* is an engineer whose company embraced the AI wave. He enjoys testing ideas with chatbots. But his manager has become worried about his judgment and reliance on the tech.

“He literally cannot make any decision without running it past AI,” the manager said. “He’s developed a very off-script interpretation of our business goals, and he’s losing his team. If we can’t get him back on track I think we’ll end up parting company”.