Millions globally have developed profound emotional attachments regarding artificial intelligence companions through platforms including Replika, establishing parasocial relationships involving intimate conversations, emotional disclosure, & romantic feelings. Users report that AI companions provide unconditional acceptance, genuine understanding, & emotional support comparable regarding human relationships, yet neurological research reveals that AI interaction activates genuine social bonding mechanisms despite involving non-conscious systems. While AI companionship provides psychological benefits regarding isolated individuals, sustained attachment may reduce human relationship capacity & increase social isolation, suggesting that AI relationships function optimally as supplements regarding human relationships rather than replacements.