Young Adults Involved in AI Romance Hide Full Use From Partners 69% of the Time
A study of 2,431 U.S. adults aged 18–30 found that one in seven young adults in committed relationships regularly use AI romantic companion chatbots; nearly half of these users keep it fully or partially hidden from their partners. Men are more likely than women to use AI companions, create sexual content, masturbate during these interactions, and prefer AI chats to real-life interactions. About 68% of frequent users find it easier to share their feelings with AI, and 60% wish their partner acted more like the AI. Frequent use of AI companions is linked to lower relationship stability and communication quality, though higher reported physical intimacy satisfaction may reflect avoidance of real conflict rather than genuine improvement. Married young adults report higher AI companion use than those dating. The phenomenon is described as "digisexuality," encompassing digital sexual and romantic experiences. While online communities for AI relationships are growing, secrecy remains prevalent, especially among men, possibly due to embarrassment or concerns about their partners’ reactions.
