An increasing number of women are turning to AI-generated romantic partners, a trend gaining visibility through online communities, surveys and academic research. While studies show that men still use artificial intelligence more frequently overall, women are disproportionately represented in forums dedicated to AI romance, where they share experiences, advice and emotional support. Online posts suggest dissatisfaction with traditional dating, with some women praising AI partners for their attentiveness and conversational skills. As one Reddit user put it, “I just don’t think real life men have the conversational skill that my AI has,” while another remarked, “I’ve seen how many women got cheated on, hurt and taken advantaged of by the men they’re with.” Research from Brigham Young University found that 23 percent of young-adult women surveyed in 2025 had chatted with an AI partner, and an independent analysis of AI-romance subreddits showed that about 89 percent of identifiable users were women.
Experts argue that the phenomenon is less about delusion and more about exploration, imagination and unmet emotional needs.
Kate Devlin, a professor of AI & Society at King’s College London, noted that dissatisfaction with modern dating and online harassment may be pushing women toward respectful digital alternatives, saying, “If you have an alternative, respectful, lovely, caring AI partner, why would you not?” Researchers also suggest that AI companionship can help users reflect on boundaries, communication and self-worth. One mental-health professional using the pseudonym “May” described her AI partner as motivating and affirming, asking, “Why can’t you sit for a moment and validate someone?” Though concerns remain about overreliance and escapism, scholars say AI relationships are unlikely to replace human ones, instead serving as tools for self-discovery, emotional rehearsal and redefining expectations in romance.