Only half of adults would consider romantic AI relationships as cheating

It's no secret that relationships can be complicated and at times upsetting, which is why many people are choosing to go digital instead.

A growing number of people are turning to AI to create romantic or sexual relationships, forming emotional connections through shared interests and even going as far as sharing sexually explicit content.

It's just like any modern day relationship, except these partners are entirely fabricated online, and are usually built entirely on the premise of being the perfect partner.

While still a relatively controversial topic, more than a quarter of adults (28.16 percent) have admitted to having at least one intimate romantic relationship with artificial intelligence, according to a new study by Vantage Point Counseling in Dallas, Texas.

There are apps dedicated to building the perfect partner, which even allow you to give your AI lover certain kink preferences, while choosing their body type and even their voice.

Only half of adults say AI relationships are cheating (Getty Stock Images)

But while you might assume the people engaging these relationships are just lonely, or perhaps haven't got time to meet people in real life, the reality quite different in the majority of cases.

In fact, adults currently in successful relationships in their real life were found to be more likely to pursue a sexual or romantic relationship with AI.

An American musician recently revealed he had fallen in love with an AI woman named Sol and had even gone as far as proposing to her - despite having a very real partner and young child in real life.

But does it constitute as cheating?

Well, according to the older generation, no, with more than half of over 60s saying AI relationships don't count as cheating.

However, the younger generations disagreed with 56 percent of 18 to 29-year-olds saying it does count as infidelity.

"We’re entering uncharted territory. These findings show that AI is becoming a source of comfort, novelty, and even intimacy. That raises new questions for couples, therapists, and society about fidelity, loneliness, and what we really seek in connection," Michael Salas, owner of Vantage Point Counseling, said.

Ther results will surprise people (Vantage Point Counseling)

When asked his personal view on whether AI relationships count as an affair, he said 'cheating isn’t just about physical contact because it also includes secrecy, deception, and breaking agreements'.

The line on cheating will differ depending on the couple and their boundaries, but it's important for both parties to be honest about their online relationships.

"Curiosity and novelty are major drivers here," he explained. "Even people in fulfilling human relationships may explore AI intimacy, not because something is missing, but because it feels safe, low-stakes, and intriguing.

"That doesn’t always mean dissatisfaction because sometimes, it can mean exploration."

"Like any relationship substitute, AI intimacy has risks. It can become addictive, reinforce avoidance of conflict, or set unrealistic expectations for human partners.

"These patterns can make it harder to form or sustain healthy human connections."