Is AI Making Us Bossy?

Psychology Today
by Ankita Guchait MBPsS
February 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
AI's growing presence in our lives may be altering how we communicate, making us more command-oriented and less patient with human nuances. The article explores whether interacting with AI, which thrives on clear, direct instructions, is reshaping our interpersonal relationships by fostering a more directive communication style that might overlook empathy and emotional depth. While AI excels at efficient task completion, human interactions are inherently complex and require patience, empathy, and adaptability. Over-reliance on AI's structured responses may reduce our ability to engage meaningfully with others, potentially leading to increased loneliness and lower social engagement, as suggested by recent studies. However, AI can also enhance communication when used mindfully. For some, AI provides clarity and structure that improves self-expression and emotional reflection, particularly in controlled settings. The key lies in balancing AI's benefits without losing sight of the importance of human connection's warmth and unpredictability. This shift in communication patterns has significant implications for mental health, emphasizing the need to maintain relational skills despite our growing reliance on technology. Striking this balance is crucial for fostering healthy relationships that thrive on understanding and compassion rather than mere efficiency.
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/13/2026