Grief is a natural and complex process that humans experience when they lose a loved one. Psychologists have now raised concerns about the potential impact of grief tech on this delicate journey of healing. They argue that grief is a learning concept, and any interference with the process could be detrimental to one’s ability to adapt to loss.
One particular form of grief tech drawing attention is AI chatbots designed to simulate conversations with deceased loved ones. These chatbots allow individuals to interact with virtual avatars that mimic the personality and characteristics of the deceased. However, experts fear that relying on these artificial companions may hinder the brain’s grieving process.
According to psychologists, one key aspect of grief involves the brain’s reward and rumination areas. These areas exhibit strong activity in individuals experiencing yearning for their lost loved ones. Dr. Elaine O’Connor explains that while someone may feel like they are getting closer to the relationship through these chatbots, they ultimately fail to fulfill the true desire for human connection.
The concern is that these AI chatbots could potentially lead individuals to avoid facing the reality of their loved one’s death. By creating a virtual presence that imitates the deceased, people might find it challenging to fully accept and process their loss. It is crucial to strike a balance between utilizing grief tech for comfort and not allowing it to impede the natural grieving process.
However, it is important to note that not all grief tech apps are inherently bad. James Vlahos, who founded HereAfter AI, developed a chatbot called the Dadbot after his father was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. HereAfter AI allows users to create a profile for their deceased loved ones, utilizing old voice recordings to simulate conversations. While this may provide solace and a sense of connection, it is not intended as a long-term solution but rather as a tool to aid the grieving process.
Another app called Seance AI aims to offer closure through simulating interactions with the deceased. Although the creator, Jarren Rocks, emphasizes that it is not a permanent solution, it can support individuals in their journey towards healing.
In conclusion, while grief tech apps have the potential to provide temporary comfort and aid in the grieving process, psychologists warn about their long-term effects. It is essential to strike a balance and not let these artificial companions hinder the natural adaptation to loss. Ultimately, the grieving process is deeply personal, and individuals should seek support from professionals and loved ones to navigate this challenging journey.
