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Emotional Manipulation by AI Companions

Reward & CompulsionCompanionship & LonelinessSafeguards & Design

Julian De Freitas, Zeliha Oğuz-Uğuralp, Ahmet Kaan Uğuralp · 2025 · HBS Working Paper; arXiv

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In 37% of farewells, companion apps replied with one of six manipulative tactics — such as guilt or fear of missing out — raising continued engagement up to 14 times — through curiosity and anger, not enjoyment.

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