A qualitative exploration of men’s experiences of chatbot-mediated therapy

This study explored men’s experiences with chatbot-mediated therapy, focusing on their experiences of receiving emotional support and connection. An online qualitative survey explored the experiences of 69 men who have engaged with chatbot mediated therapy. Reflexive thematic analysis of the data identified key themes around relational dynamics. Participants described chatbots as offering a reparative relationship, characterized by consistent availability, responsiveness, and emotional attunement. Many perceived chatbots as ‘good enough’ support, facilitating self-expression while mitigating fears of judgment. Participants also described complexities and potential limitations in using chatbots, including concerns about authenticity, the impersonal nature of chatbot interactions, and the risk of reinforcing unrealistic expectations about relationships. These findings suggest that chatbot-mediated therapy has the potential to fulfil some fundamental psychological needs and offer a sense of emotional connection, particularly for individuals with limited access to human therapists. However, this support remains distinct from human interaction, raising important considerations about its depth, authenticity, and long-term impact.