THE ETHICS OF APPLYING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND CHATBOTS IN MENTAL HEALTH: A PSYCHOANALYTIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This paper discusses the ethical implications of the use of Artificial Intelligences (AIs) or therapist chatbots in mental health through the method of narrative review of literature. It defines what these devices are, their benefits and limitations for clinical practice. Then, it examines the ethical problems that the result from these technologies from perspective of psychoanalysis. It highlights the risks of complex emotional harm, lack of validity and reliability of information, and absence of accountability of the agents involved. Finally, it presents some recommendations for the development of more ethical AIs and the questions that arise in this sense.