Iowans Among Millions Exploring Romantic Relationships with Artificial Intelligence

Everyone needs love. Our general mindset is that humans, love can only come from living creatures.

Fellow humans, a pet...but what about artificial intelligence?

My wife is not a fan of AI, while I feel it has strong benefits. I will admit, however, that I never considered the benefits to be romantic.

The Evolving Ways We Love

Romantic relationships are evolving in ways few could have imagined, and Iowans are part of the shift.

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A new national study from Vantage Point Counseling Services in Dallas shows that 28% of adults have had at least one romantic or intimate relationship with artificial intelligence.

READ MORE: Iowa Students in Trouble over AI Nude Photos

More than half of all U.S. adults say they have some kind of emotional or social connection with AI.

The Platforms That We Are Most Attached To

The study found that ChatGPT ranked as the platform people feel most connected to, followed by Character.ai, Alexa, Siri, and Gemini.

While many use AI for practical reasons, others are finding comfort, companionship, and even romantic attachment in digital systems.

Interestingly, the survey found that adults already in successful human relationships were more likely to explore intimacy with AI.

Is It Cheating If It's AI?

For many, curiosity and emotional safety were key motivators, not necessarily dissatisfaction with their partner.

When it comes to whether AI intimacy counts as cheating, opinions are divided.

Half of adults over 60 said it is not cheating, while younger adults (ages 18–29) were far more likely to view it as unfaithful or inappropriate.

READ MORE: Can AI Detect Guns in Iowa Schools?

The study also warns of potential risks, such as emotional dependency or avoidance of real-world relationships.

Who is Most Likely to "Fall in Love" With AI?

The survey included 1,012 adults nationwide, balanced by age, gender, and income, with a 3.08% margin of error and a 95% confidence level.

As technology continues to shape how people connect, from big cities to small towns across Iowa.

Experts say honest conversations about boundaries, trust, and emotional needs will be key to navigating this new digital age of intimacy.

Looking to get away? Even if it's not from technology, who doesn't need a little escape?