Emotional attachment to AI chatbots: Evidence from Germany, China, South Africa, and the United States

Technology in Society 2026 Open access

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Authors: Genia Kostka, Hui Zhou
DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2026.103379
Cited by: 5
References: 67

Abstract

• Chatbots are the top choice for secret sharing for 20.94% of 7,027 respondents • Over 35% of respondents are emotionally attached to chatbots such as befriending them • Emotional attachment is more prevalent in China and South Africa • Emotional attachment is influenced by multiple factors, including perceived support • Emotional attachment strongly correlates with user dependence

Fields of Study & Subjects

AI in Service Interactions Digital Mental Health Interventions Social Robot Interaction and HRI

Publication details

Journal / source
Technology in Society
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
87
Pages
103379–103379
Publication date
27 April 2026
Language
EN