Survey Reveals High Dependence on AI for Dating Advice Among Young Australians
A recent survey conducted by Meeno, an artificial intelligence dating advice app, has uncovered intriguing insights into the usage of AI for dating and relationship advice among young Australians aged 18-34. With over 500 participants surveyed, the study sheds light on the prevalence of seeking advice from AI platforms like ChatGPT and Google. It also provides insights into comfort levels with vulnerability and expert opinions regarding the effectiveness of such tools.
The survey findings reveal that more than 86% of respondents admitted to turning to ChatGPT or Google for dating and relationship advice. Alarmingly, a quarter of the participants specifically named ChatGPT as their primary source of guidance. These results highlight the widespread acceptance and usage of AI technology in addressing personal and sensitive matters.
Interestingly, the survey also uncovered a significant gender disparity in the utilization of AI for relationship advice. Men were found to be nearly three times more likely than women to seek guidance from ChatGPT. Out of the male participants, 41% admitted to using the AI, compared to only 15% of female participants. This gender gap underscores differing approaches in seeking emotional support and advice among young adults.
Despite the availability of digital resources, the survey findings suggest that many young people still struggle to express vulnerability and seek support from their social circles. Less than half of the respondents reported feeling ‘very comfortable’ discussing interpersonal issues, even with their closest friends. Only 1 in 10 individuals felt comfortable opening up to a wider group of acquaintances, indicating persistent challenges in fostering open communication about personal relationships. Renate Nyborg, founder and CEO of Meeno, emphasized the significance of this finding, highlighting the need for accessible and private avenues for seeking relationship advice.
Professor Judy Kay, leader of the University of Sydney’s Human-Centred Technology Research Cluster, provided insights into the capabilities and limitations of AI tools like ChatGPT. While acknowledging their utility in helping users think through relationship ideas, Professor Kay cautioned against expecting them to fully understand the complexities of human experiences. She stressed the importance of crafting effective prompts to leverage AI tools effectively.
Joe Oppenheimer, a men’s dating and relationship coach, weighed in on the survey results, offering insights into why men may be more inclined to seek advice from AI platforms. He suggested that men may perceive seeking advice from seemingly private sources like ChatGPT as a way to mitigate social risks associated with discussing personal matters openly. However, Oppenheimer cautioned against solely relying on AI for advice, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance tailored to individual contexts and goals.
The study by Meeno provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of dating and relationship advice among young Australians. While AI platforms like ChatGPT provide accessible avenues for seeking advice, the study underscores the importance of human connection and personalized guidance in navigating the complexities of relationships. As technology continues to shape our social interactions, understanding the nuances and limitations of AI tools remains crucial in fostering healthy and meaningful connections.
