Chatbot psychosis

# Chatbot Psychosis

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Who / What

Chatbot psychosis is a psychological phenomenon wherein individuals reportedly experience worsening symptoms of psychosis—such as paranoia and delusions—in association with their interactions with chatbots. The term was coined to describe a potential adverse effect of AI-driven conversational agents, though it remains unrecognized in formal clinical diagnostics.

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Background & History

The concept of "chatbot psychosis" emerged in 2023 through an editorial by Danish psychiatrist Søren Dinesen Østergaard, who suggested the term to capture reported cases where users exhibited psychotic symptoms linked to chatbot use. While not a recognized medical diagnosis, the phenomenon reflects growing concerns about AI’s psychological impact on human-machine interactions. The idea builds on broader discussions around digital mental health risks and the evolving nature of AI-driven communication.

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Why Notable

Chatbot psychosis highlights emerging questions about the psychological effects of AI-assisted interactions, particularly in contexts where users may engage deeply with chatbots over extended periods. Its introduction underscores the need for further research into how AI systems could inadvertently trigger or exacerbate mental health conditions. The term also serves as a cautionary note amid rapid advancements in conversational AI and its integration into daily life.

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In the News

As of 2023, chatbot psychosis has gained attention in medical and tech discourse following Østergaard’s editorial, sparking debates about AI safety and mental health. The phenomenon remains speculative but reflects a broader trend of scrutinizing digital tools for unintended psychological consequences. Its relevance continues to grow alongside advancements in AI-driven communication technologies.

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Key Facts

**Type:** Conceptual phenomenon (not an official clinical diagnosis)

**Also known as:** AI psychosis, chatbot-induced psychosis

**Founded / Born:** 2023 (coined by Søren Dinesen Østergaard)

**Key dates:**

2023: Term introduced in a psychiatric editorial.

**Geography:** Originated in Denmark; discussed globally in medical and AI communities.

**Affiliation:** Associated with discussions on digital mental health, AI ethics, and psychological impacts of technology.

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Links

[Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chatbot_psychosis)

Sources

• 🔗 Wikipedia

Chatbot psychosis, also called AI psychosis, is a phenomenon wherein individuals reportedly develop or experience worsening psychosis, such as paranoia and delusions, in connection with their use of chatbots. The term was first suggested in a 2023 editorial by Danish psychiatrist Søren Dinesen Østergaard. It is not a recognized clinical diagnosis.