JUSTIFICATION OF THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS

Abstract

This article explores the profound transformation of interpersonal communication in the era of artificial intelligence (AI), highlighting how the integration of AI technologies has redefined traditional human interaction. Historically grounded in direct verbal and nonverbal exchange, interpersonal communication has always been a cornerstone of social cohesion,  empathy, and identity. However, since the early 2020s, the emergence of generative AI systems and intelligent communication interfaces has challenged these foundational dynamics. AI is no longer a passive tool but increasingly  acts as a mediator, moderator, or even participant in human dialogue. The study identifies five primary forms of AI integration into interpersonal communication: interactive engagement, algorithmic mediation, content generation, personalized interaction and socio-emotional modelling. While these innovations offer new opportunities for efficiency, accessibility, and inclusivity, they also introduce complex risks related to emotional authenticity, privacy, algorithmic bias, and communication ethics. Special attention is given to the psychological and social consequences of AI-mediated communication. The illusion of empathy generated by AI systems can lead to emotional dependency, decreased human contact, and an erosion of conversational skills. The phenomenon of “digital loneliness,” where individuals feel isolated despite continuous digital engagement, is increasingly prevalent, especially among younger populations. Furthermore, AI-driven recommendation systems contribute to informational echo chambers, limiting users’ exposure to diverse viewpoints and exacerbating social polarization. The article also discusses the epistemological and ontological implications of AI in human interaction. With the rise of deepfakes, synthetic voices, and manipulated identities, the boundaries of authenticity and trust in communication become increasingly blurred. The research draws on interdisciplinary methods, including communication theory, cognitive science, and sociotechnical systems analysis, to examine both empirical findings and conceptual frameworks. The results of the study indicate a dual nature of AI’s influence on communication. On one hand, it fosters accessibility, personalization, and continuous availability; on the other hand, it challenges core human values such as empathy, trust, and mutual understanding. The article concludes  ith a call for the development of ethical guidelines, digital empathy education, and human-centered design in the deployment of AI communication systems. These efforts are necessary to ensure that technological advancement does not undermine the human dimension of interpersonal relationships.