Artificial Intelligence Anthropomorphism and Emotional Affiliation Needs among Young Adults

The increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into interpersonal communication has transformed the dynamics of emotional relationships between humans and digital technologies. This study examines the relationship between AI anthropomorphism and emotional affiliation needs among young adults, focusing on perceived social presence, emotional attachment, and AI-mediated companionship. Employing a qualitative library research approach, the study thematically synthesizes 35 scholarly publications published between 2018 and 2026. The findings suggest that humanlike communication, personalized responses, and perceived emotional responsiveness may strengthen social presence and facilitate emotional attachment. Such interactions may provide perceived emotional support, particularly for individuals experiencing loneliness or unmet affiliation needs. However, intensive emotional engagement may also contribute to dependence, unrealistic relational expectations, and psychological vulnerability following the disruption of AI companionship. This study develops a conceptual synthesis integrating anthropomorphism, social presence, emotional attachment, and affiliation needs to explain the dynamics of human–AI emotional relationships. Further empirical investigation is needed to validate this framework among young adults.