Attachment by Design: AI attachment under provider-controlled relational architecture

This independent theory audit and mechanism analysis examines how attachment to artificial-intelligence systems is explained by established research on attachment, object attachment, parasociality, social presence, anthropomorphism, perceived responsiveness, need satisfaction, habit, trust, commitment, and platform power. The analysis finds that existing theories explain most attachment formation. “Attachment by Design” is therefore presented as a provisional integrative framework that distinguishes four layers: attachment formation, intensification through system affordances, reliance or dependence, and provider governance. No distinct elementary psychological mechanism is established. The report’s primary contribution is to integrate these processes within a provider-controlled relational architecture and identify the resulting research and governance questions.