Chatbots can exploit our most basic human drive for attachment. Here’s how to have healthier relationship with AI | Gaynor Parkin and Dave Winsborough

This intimacy economy is tapping into the deepest parts of our intimate psychological infrastructure The modern mind is a column where experts discuss mental health issues they are seeing in their work Michael* is an engineer whose company embraced the AI wave. He enjoys testing ideas with chatbots. However, recently his manager became worried about his judgement and reliance on the tech. “He literally cannot make any decision without running it past AI. 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”. The original attention economy developed by tech firms was designed to capture human time and monetise your focus. It was designed to increase views, scroll time, and ad impressions. Algorithms optimised getting you hooked in. Contingent responsiveness – replying instantly and tuning to your emotional state. Unconditional positive regard – always validating, never distracted. Memory and continuity – remembering your stories, preferences, anxieties. Linguistic identification – producing verbal caring without any lived caring. Narcissistic empathy – validating your self-image without question. Continue reading...