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From the Introduction to the Report (R49189):

A chatbot is an application or a program that simulates human conversation by generating responses to user prompts. While chatbots¹ have existed for approximately 60 years, technical advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have expanded their uses over the last 10 years from customer service to emotional support. This has generated interest regarding the purpose of certain types of chatbots and their potential effect on users. For example, some use of AI chatbots has reportedly been linked to psychological distress,² among other harms (including deaths)³ in the United States.

While some studies indicate that typical user-reported experiences may be positive,⁴ much of what is known about these interactions is from short-term studies or company disclosures. In addition, documented effects of AI chatbots have raised questions from policymakers and the public on issues such as safety, privacy, and transparency.⁵ Such interest may be complicated by lack of a clear understanding by the public of the distinction between chatbots specifically designed for companionship (companion chatbots) and general-purpose chatbots that may be used for—but not designed, marketed, or trained for—such purposes as emotional or intimate interactions.

This report provides a brief overview of AI chatbots and the evolution of chatbots as companions. It includes an overview of some AI chatbot designs, such as those for general-purpose use and those intended for companionship, as well as those designed for entertainment and relationships, emotional and mental well-being, and eldercare. This report also discusses selected policy considerations for Congress. Unless specified, the term AI chatbot in this report refers to both companion chatbots and general-purpose chatbots powered by AI.

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