Artificial intelligence is increasingly shaping how people form, manage and end romantic relationships, according to researchers at the Australian National University.
While dating apps are already well established, ANU researchers say AI is now being used at every stage of relationships — from crafting first messages and interpreting flirting, to resolving arguments and even processing break-ups.
The ANU is running an online survey. Researchers are keen to hear from people with a range of views and experiences, including those who are firmly against using AI in their personal lives, and those who haven’t done so before but would be open to it in the future.
Dr Anne Ozdowska said early research showed people were turning to AI for a wide range of emotional and communication support.
“We’re seeing it used as a therapist and a source of communication advice and emotional support, and that’s just the beginning,” she said.
“We’re also seeing a shift towards people asking AI questions they might previously have asked friends over dinner or drinks.”
One participant told researchers they had put a text exchange into AI to work out whether the person they were chatting to was flirting, because they could not tell themselves.
Dr Ozdowska said while AI could play a supportive role, researchers were also seeing more concerning uses, such as “chatfishing” — using AI to deceive others online.
ANU PhD researcher Karla Kelly said the study aimed to better understand how people were integrating AI into their love lives.
“This is not something that’s been looked at from an academic point of view until now,” she said.
“If we better understand how people are using AI in their relationships, we can start to explore the social, ethical and emotional implications.”
Research Fellow Michelle Adiwangsa said the findings could help inform future safeguards around the technology.
“It’s the first step in maybe developing some better standards and guardrails,” she said.
Early survey results suggest those opposed to using AI in dating are concerned it feels inauthentic or dishonest. Those who have used it report asking AI to suggest conversation topics, help phrase messages, check tone, or assist with resolving misunderstandings calmly.
