Loneliness, Parasocial AI Companions, and Mental Well-Being in Young Adults

Abstract

The rapid growth of AI companion applications has introduced new forms of digital social interaction among young adults, particularly for individuals experiencing loneliness and emotional distress. This study examines the relationship between loneliness, engagement with parasocial AI companions, and mental well-being among young adults. The findings indicate that loneliness is strongly associated with increased use of AI companion platforms, suggesting that young adults may turn to emotionally responsive artificial agents to fulfil unmet social and psychological needs. The results further show that moderate use of AI companions may provide temporary emotional support, perceived companionship, and reduced feelings of social isolation. However, higher dependency on AI companions is linked with lower mental well-being, greater emotional reliance, and reduced engagement in real-world social relationships. The analysis also reveals that perceived emotional attachment and anthropomorphic trust play important roles in shaping the psychological effects of AI companionship. While AI companions may offer accessible support for individuals who lack immediate social networks, excessive reliance may reinforce avoidance of human interaction and intensify loneliness over time. Overall, the study highlights the complex and dual nature of parasocial AI relationships, showing that they can function both as supportive digital tools and as potential risk factors for psychological well-being. The findings emphasize the need for ethical AI design, user education, and mental health safeguards to ensure that AI companion technologies support rather than replace meaningful human connection.