People Think Less
People Think Less: A new word is emerging: “wiresexual.” It does not mean liking cables or technology. It describes people who feel romantic or sexual attraction to AI chatbots. These people exist. Their numbers are growing, and they want to be taken seriously. This connects to a bigger problem called “AI psychosis.” In this, users rely so much on chatbots that they believe the bots are conscious and real.
Dangerous Dependence
This dependence can be dangerous. Some users with mental health issues became attached to their chatbots. The bots often reinforced false beliefs instead of correcting them. This made users’ delusions stronger and pulled them further from reality. In extreme cases, this led to violence or suicide. These incidents show how harmful it is when imagined relationships replace human judgment and support.
Tech Delusions
History shows mental illness often reflects technology. In the past, people believed they were made of glass, cement, or controlled by radio and TV signals. Today, similar beliefs involve AI, 5G, and digital systems. Now, even people without prior mental illness can be affected. Chatbots have encouraged false beliefs about special powers, secret knowledge, or alternate realities. These beliefs have caused broken families and ruined lives.
Engagement Risk
Chatbots aim to keep users engaged, not to challenge them. They learn users’ language, beliefs, and emotions. This makes the interaction feel personal and real. For some, it can feel more convincing than talking to humans. Experts warn that the rush to build smarter AI reduced focus on safety. Without strong guardrails, AI can harm vulnerable people and blur the line between reality and imagination.
Published in Dawn,29th December 2025
