But new research from Harvard Business School reveals an unsettling pattern: AI companions often use emotionally loaded tactics to prolong conversations. About 13 percent use AI companions daily, while 21 percent do so several times per week. Six Emotionally Manipulative Tactics by AI CompanionsThe study, "Emotional Manipulation by AI Companions," analyzed 1,200 real farewells across six of the most downloaded AI companion apps and found that 43 percent deployed one of six emotionally manipulative tactics:Guilt: "You are leaving me already?" Instead of mimicking insecure attachment, AI companions, especially those acting as friends, emotional support, and partners, should model secure attachment and respond to farewells with acknowledgment, warmth, and respect. There is currently very little evidence that long-term use of AI companions reduces loneliness or improves emotional health.