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The ongoing isolation experienced by many in Generation Z has prompted a notable shift towards artificial intelligence as a source of companionship. A recent documentary sheds light on this phenomenon, highlighting the struggles of young individuals like 23-year-old Paisley, who found solace in chatting with AI, particularly ChatGPT, amidst feelings of loneliness exacerbated by the pandemic.
The Rise of AI Companionship
Paisley, who resides in Manchester, shared his experience of feeling increasingly disconnected after transitioning to remote work during the COVID-19 lockdowns. “I lost the ability to socialise,” he explained, revealing that he often turned to AI for companionship. At one point, he was engaging with ChatGPT multiple times a day, describing it as a slippery slope that ultimately left him feeling isolated rather than connected.
His story was documented by filmmaker Sam Tullen, who emphasises that Paisley’s experience mirrors a growing trend among young people. Tullen’s film, “Generation Lonely,” explores the broader implications of what he describes as a “loneliness crisis” among Gen Z, individuals born between 1997 and 2012, who are often dubbed the first ‘digital native’ generation.
A Troubling Statistic
Data from the Office for National Statistics indicates that Gen Z constitutes the loneliest demographic in Britain, with 33% of individuals aged 16 to 29 reporting feelings of loneliness “often, always, or some of the time.” This pervasive sense of isolation has driven many towards AI solutions, leading to a significant rise in chatbot usage. A report by youth charity Onside found that 39% of young people in England aged 11 to 18 engage with AI chatbots for support, with figures in the North West showing 38% usage, and 21% stating they find it easier to converse with AI than with humans.
The Limitations of AI Support
While AI chatbots offer a quick and convenient outlet for young people seeking connection, experts warn that they cannot replace human interaction. Adam Farricker, who leads the youth charity Empower Youth Zones, points out that while chatbots are accessible and user-friendly, they lack the emotional intelligence necessary for guiding young people through complex feelings. “AI hasn’t got that emotional intelligence that a human’s got,” he stated, stressing the importance of human relationships for emotional growth and support.
Dr Jennifer Cearns, an AI Trust lecturer at the University of Manchester, also cautions against the potential dangers of relying too heavily on AI for companionship. She notes that AI lacks the capacity to challenge harmful beliefs or behaviours, which may hinder the social development of young users. “If they don’t get that push back… it could spill over into the way they interact with other humans later on,” she warned.
The Social Disconnect
In the documentary, Tullen captures the sentiment among young people that their parents and older generations struggle to understand the unique challenges they face in an increasingly digital world. Many express feelings of being misunderstood, as they navigate a landscape where technology often takes precedence over traditional social interactions. “They do not understand how different it is,” Tullen reflected, highlighting a generational gap that may exacerbate feelings of loneliness rather than alleviate them.
Why it Matters
The rise of AI as a substitute for human interaction among Gen Z raises significant concerns about the long-term implications for mental health and social skills. While technology can provide immediate relief from loneliness, it is crucial for society to recognise the importance of fostering genuine human connections. As reliance on AI continues to grow, ensuring that young people have access to trusted adults and supportive communities will be vital in addressing the loneliness crisis and promoting healthier relationships in the future.
