Feeling Vulnerable With My AI Companion: Examining Well‐Being in Human‐AI Relationships

ABSTRACT Individuals resort to human‐AI relationships to fulfill psychological, social, and empathetic needs. Nevertheless, dilemmas arise from these interdependent relationships which, although destined to enhance users' well‐being, can also be detrimental to them. By adopting a mixed‐method approach (netnography, n = 1131 posts; survey, n = 610), through the lens of Interdependence Theory , this study investigates characteristics of interdependent human‐AI relationships and how users' vulnerability emerges within those relationships, ultimately affecting their well‐being. Results suggest that users experience dilemmas within relationships with AI companions. Specifically, AI companion's warmth and availability create a “positive” dependence, softening vulnerability and positively influencing well‐being. However, the AI emotional abilities and third‐party company control increase perceptions of relational power imbalance, thus positively influencing vulnerability and negatively influencing well‐being. We provide practical applications centered on app developers integrating protective app features to increase consumers' self‐confidence, coping strategies, self‐worth and benevolence, as well as adopting a collaborative model with consumers.