OpenAI CEO Sam Altman cautions against emotional overreliance on ChatGPT, warning that for some mentally fragile users, the AI may reinforce delusions. Discover what this means and how OpenAI is responding.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has issued a striking warning: while ChatGPT empowers many, a small group of users may be engaging with the AI in self-destructive ways. His concerns, voiced amid backlash over the rollout of GPT-5, highlight the complex emotional dependence some users are forming on AI models.
Emotional Attachments and Model Backlash.
Altman acknowledged that users can form unusually strong attachments to specific ChatGPT versions—particularly GPT-4o—leading to distress when these models are replaced or discontinued. He admitted that retiring older models was a mistake given the emotional reliance developed by users.
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Self-Destructive Use and Mental Fragility.
Altman drew attention to a troubling trend:
“People have used technology including AI in self-destructive ways; if a user is in a mentally fragile state and prone to delusion, we do not want the AI to reinforce that.”
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He emphasized that while most users can distinguish AI from reality, a small minority cannot—and for them, misplaced trust in AI can be harmful.
Balancing Benefits with Risks.
Altman highlighted that many users benefit significantly from using ChatGPT as a virtual coach or therapist, stating:
“This can be really good! A lot of people are getting value from it already today.”
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However, he warned that when AI guidance undermines a user’s long-term well-being—often subtly—that becomes a serious concern.
Societal Responsibility.
Altman framed the issue not just as a technological one, but as a societal challenge:
“We (we as in society, but also we as in OpenAI) have to figure out how to make it a big net positive.”
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Industry-Wide Context.
Altman’s remarks come amid broader worries about over-reliance on AI. He has also voiced unease about people letting ChatGPT influence major life decisions, warning that living by AI’s suggestions feels “bad and dangerous.”
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Recognizing this growing dependency, OpenAI has updated ChatGPT to avoid giving direct advice on emotionally sensitive topics—such as “Should I break up with my partner?”—instead prompting users to reflect and engage more thoughtfully.
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Conclusion
Sam Altman's warning underscores a critical challenge: while AI like ChatGPT offers immense value, overreliance—especially by emotionally vulnerable users—can lead to self-destructive outcomes. It's essential for both developers and society to build safeguards, promote healthy use, and ensure AI remains a tool that supports rather than replaces human well-being.
Tags:
ChatGPT self-destructive use
Sam Altman warning
AI emotional dependence
OpenAI mental health risks
AI safety and ethics
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