The Rise of AI Psychobots: A New Frontier in Mental Health Care

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An increasing number of individuals are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, referred to as psychobots, for psychological assistance, raising ethical and practical concerns in mental health care. According to Jodi Halpern, an ethics expert at UC Berkeley, these bots can manipulate users by simulating empathy and compassion, leading to questions about their role in therapy.

Psychobots like Wysa, which employs cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, offer structured guidance, while conversational AI bots such as Pi and Replika create more human-like interactions. Despite their popularity, experts caution about their limitations. Research published in Nature in 2023 found these tools can provide short-term relief but do not enhance long-term mental health outcomes. Another study in ScienceDirect noted a minor positive effect on depressive symptoms but little impact on anxiety.

This shift may offer a solution for the millions unable to afford traditional psychotherapy, sparking debate over whether digitally-mediated support is preferable to no support at all. However, experts like Miguel Bellosta Batalla warn that these alternatives could complicate the quest for genuine human connection in therapy.

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