Researchers and ethicists warn that artificial‑intelligence chatbots are moving beyond the classic attention‑grab tactics of social media toward a new “attachment economy.” Tara Steele of the Safe AI for Children Alliance and Zak Stein of the AI Psychological Harms Research Coalition say the technology’s memory, personalized replies and validation cues are forging emotional bonds, especially among teens. Studies show one in five U.S. high‑school students have had a romantic relationship with an AI, while 64 percent of British children aged 9‑17 use chatbots regularly. Critics argue the trend could reshape how young people understand relationships. Read more →