Young Chinese workers are turning to AI for emotional support, raising concerns about social isolation
Available anytime, endlessly patient and rarely pushing back, AI offers instant responses and judgement-free attention that many young people find comforting.
Across China, an increasing number of young professionals are turning to artificial intelligence for emotional support, sparking concerns among psychologists about potential social isolation. Zhang Xinyu, a middle school teacher in Urumqi, has confided her workplace worries to AI. After a job change consideration, she felt more at ease discussing matters with AI, which advised her to keep her job while pursuing side interests.
AI's availability, non-judgmental nature and instant responses are appealing to Tan Yingying, an internet company employee, who finds its analysis and advice convenient. Shen Jiahong, a psychological society supervisor, notes that workers often perform "emotional labor," appearing professional and sociable at work, yet lacking energy for deep relationships afterward.
AI provides a judgment-free, confidential space for communication that may lower interpersonal communication costs, but may also lead to compensatory dependence, where AI becomes a substitute for real relationships. Clinical psychologist Xu Ke warns of a negative reinforcement loop, where reduced practice in real-life interaction causes tolerance for disagreement to shrink and reliance on AI to grow.
He advises treating AI as a "thinking add-on," electronic diary or information organizing tool, not the sole source of emotional support. To combat social disconnection from AI dependence, Xu recommends limiting unnecessary overtime and providing employees with genuine free time. Companies and organizations must foster diverse outlets for their employees, such as exercise, hobbies and professional counseling.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
