10 Questions to Fall in Love with ChatGPT: An Experimental Study on Interpersonal Closeness with Large Language Models (LLMs)

Large language models (LLMs), like ChatGPT, are capable of computing affectionately nuanced text that therefore can shape online interactions, including dating. This study explores how individuals experience closeness and romantic interest in dating profiles, depending on whether they believe the profiles are human- or AI-generated. In a matchmaking scenario, 307 participants rated 10 responses to the Interpersonal Closeness Generating Task, unaware that all were LLM-generated. Surprisingly, perceived source (human or AI) had no significant impact on closeness or romantic interest. Instead, perceived quality and human-likeness of responses shaped reactions. The results challenge current theoretical frameworks for human-machine communication and raise critical questions about the importance of authenticity in affective online communication.