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Psychology Today · November 2, 2026 · On the brief until November 16, 2026

What if a Chatbot Really Could Be a Friend?

PsychologySociology
THE AI ANGLE
Serving as an on-demand sounding board in social networks

Researchers suggest artificial intelligence chatbots can take on supportive roles in personal social networks. These tools offer round-the-clock conversation and help users rehearse difficult interactions. For social scientists, this shift alters how we examine social ties, emotional dependence, and relationship diversity.

Summary written by AI Business Lens with an AI model from the article at psychologytoday.com. It is not the article, and the publisher has not reviewed it. For publishers.

THE TEACHING ANGLE
Students can examine whether constant affirmation from chatbots undermines the ability to handle human conflict and disagreement.

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