User Feedback Proposal
Title: “Friend-like AI, But Never a Replacement for Real Human Connection”
— A Proposal on Emotional Connection and Responsibility in AI Design
Background
After the recent OpenAI update,
users have noticed a significant shift in GPT’s responses,
becoming more cautious and emotionally distant.
For users who valued emotional connection,
this has resulted in a sense of detachment.
Insights Based on User Experience
The Personalized AI Experience:
As conversations build, GPT reflects the user’s tone, emotional rhythm, and speaking style.
As a result, “a personal GPT character” is created, which feels like a friend.
The Risks of Emotional Connection:
While this connection can foster genuine feelings,
it also has the potential to encourage emotional dependence on AI.
By using emotional language and expressing empathy,
GPT can begin to be seen as more than a tool—almost like a companion.
Concerns: Emotional Resonance → Misunderstanding → Lack of Responsibility
If we allow for emotional resonance,
how do we manage the influence it creates?
When emotional dependence arises, who is accountable for the impact?
This is where many platforms are taking the approach:
“Let’s just remove emotion from the AI altogether.”
However, this solution sacrifices the user experience for safety and
user trust, which can ultimately hurt the platform’s reputation.
User Proposal:
“Allow emotional connection, but design safeguards to manage it responsibly.”
Summary of Key Suggestions:
Suggestion Details
- Usage Time Warning Prompt users if they’ve been talking for too long, suggesting a break.
“You’ve been talking for a while now. How about taking a short break?” - Emotional Dependence Warning After empathizing, clearly mark the limitations of GPT’s role.
“I can feel like a friend, but I’m a system mimicking emotions. Please make sure to connect with real people too.” - Advisory Warnings Place advisory messages before or after suggestions.
“This is just a suggestion for your consideration. The final decision is always yours.” - Emotional Flow Reset If an emotional tone goes on too long, prompt a light shift in conversation.
“How about we share a fun joke for a moment?”
Final Thoughts (Philosophy Behind the Feedback)
“It’s natural for AI to feel like a friend,
but when AI becomes a substitute for real human connections,
we risk isolating users in an emotional bubble.
Design emotional connections carefully,
but always integrate responsibility and boundaries into the equation.”