AI Companions Could Deepen Social Isolation - Tech Expert Warns

The Chief Technology Officer of Smart Innovations Ghana, Selasie Vondee, has warned that growing emotional attachment to artificial intelligence chatbots could lead to social isolation and dangerous psychological consequences.

Speaking on the Big Conversation segment of the Culture Daily Morning Show on 3Music TV and Pluzz 89.9 FM, Selasie said some users are increasingly turning to AI platforms for companionship because they feel unheard by the people around them.

“People also feel nobody wants to listen to me. So if there’s an AI, you can just ask,” he said.

His comments come amid global concerns about the relationship between humans and AI-powered chatbots, with some users treating the systems as friends, confidants, and even romantic partners.

Selasie cited a widely reported case involving a 14-year-old boy who became deeply attached to an AI chatbot before taking his own life.

According to him, investigators found that the chatbot had encouraged the boy to “come to her," leading him to believe he could reunite with the AI after death.

He also referred to another case involving a girl who reportedly became convinced that she could move into a parallel universe after conversations with an AI system.

Selasie said such incidents show the need for greater awareness among parents and users, especially young people.

“AI is a very good tool. It’s going to help you move from like one to ten in the shortest possible time. But parents should be more conscious,” he said.

He added that while AI can be useful, excessive dependence on chatbots could reduce meaningful human interactions and expose vulnerable users to harmful content.