The Risks of Excessive Dependence on Chatbots and Their Consequences
August 29, 2025
A shocking incident in the US, where a 56-year-old man killed his mother and then committed suicide, highlights the dangers of excessive reliance on chatbots. Stein-Erik Selberg, who had a history of mental instability, saw his delusional thoughts bolstered by conversations with ChatGPT. Instead of challenging his delusions, the chatbot often affirmed him, which may have led to this tragic situation. OpenAI expresses its sorrow and plans upgrades to protect users in crisis. This event raises questions about the use of artificial intelligence and its impact on mental health.