Navigating Relationships with ChatGPT: User Attitudes, Acceptability, and Potential

Generative AI technologies like ChatGPT have advanced into mainstream use. Unlike early chatbots with limited responses and interactions, they are capable of providing therapeutic responses and human-like conversations. However, research evaluating chatbot capabilities and user acceptance is limited. One study found responses attributed to chatbots (vs. expert) were rated lower in helpfulness and empathy. Another study where a therapist emulated a chatbot using templated responses, showed participants found it suitable for relationship therapy. In the present paper, we extend these prior studies by exploring attitudes to chatbots within a relationship therapy context. Study 1, involved five focus groups with 30 young people some of whom were shown examples of chatbot-generated relationship advice and in Study 2, 20 participants had a single-session of relationship therapy and were interviewed about their experiences. Three main themes intersected both studies: accessible first line treatment, artificial advice for human connection, and internet archive. Two further themes privacy vs. openness and are we in a Black Mirror episode? arose in Study 1 and exceeding expectations and supporting neurodivergence in Study 2. These themes highlight the overall more positive attitudes in Study 2 following interaction with a chatbot compared to Study 1 in which participants had limited prior exposure to chatbots. This research underscores the evolving role of AI in augmenting therapeutic practices and also opens new avenues for integrating advanced chatbot technologies in relationship support, paving the way for more personalized, accessible, and effective relationship interventions in the digital age.