In this thought-provoking episode of The Human Circuit, host Rocky explores a groundbreaking study from Waseda University that dives deep into the emotional dimensions of human-AI relationships through the lens of attachment theory.

The discussion focuses on how people are beginning to form emotional bonds with AI systems, not just as tools, but as companions that offer comfort, support, and even a sense of security. The episode highlights the development of the EHARS scale, designed to measure attachment anxiety and avoidance toward AI, and discusses the implications for the ethical design of AI companions, mental health tools, and conversational systems.

Topics Covered:

What is attachment theory, and how does it apply to AI?

The surprising emotional roles AI is beginning to fill

The ethical risks of over-attachment or emotional manipulation

Why personalization and transparency in AI design matter more than ever

Whether you're building the future of AI or simply curious about where it's all headed, this episode will leave you with deeper questions about how we connect with machines, and with ourselves.

Journal Reference:

Fan Yang, Atsushi Oshio. Using attachment theory to conceptualize and measure the experiences in human-AI relationships. Current Psychology, 2025; DOI: ⁠10.1007/s12144-025-07917-6