When Lonely Customers Choose Non-Human Workers: UK Study Shows Robots Feel Safer Than Staff
What Happened & Why It Matters
On 14 September 2025, a study published in the Journal of Digital Economy by UK scholars revealed a surprising preference: many lonely people feel more comfortable interacting with robots than with human staff in customer service settings.
The study involved 354 participants who were presented with scenarios—such as checking into a hotel—and asked whether they would rather be helped by a robot (a Voice AI Agent or other automated service) or by a human staff member. Those who reported feeling lonely often chose the robotic option.
Key Findings & Interpretations
- Loneliness doesn’t always equal wanting more human interaction: Despite common assumptions, the study found that people who feel lonely often prefer less pressure in interactions—meaning interactions that carry fewer emotional expectations. A robot or non-human worker offers that buffer.
- Emotional energy matters: When human interaction feels emotionally draining (fear of judgement, social comparison, etc.), non-human options become more appealing.
- Business implications: Companies deploying Voice AI Agents or service robots might improve satisfaction for lonely customers by providing robotic or automated service options, not just human ones. But there’s a caution: relying too heavily on robots could deepen social isolation over time.
Broader Relevance & What to Watch
This study is especially relevant now, given how widespread loneliness has become in many nations. As automation and AI continue expanding into customer interactions—from reception desks to voice-assistants—it’s important for businesses and policymakers to understand the trade-offs. Non-human Workers (AI Employees, robots, voice agents) may help some users feel safer or more comfortable, but also risk reducing genuine social connection if overused.
Looking ahead, service providers will need to strike a balance: offering both AI Employees and human staff, tailoring to the emotional needs of customers, and ensuring that loneliness isn’t worsened by removing human touch where it matters.
Key Highlights:
- Study from UK published in Journal of Digital Economy on 14 September 2025 involving 354 participants.
- Lonely customers often prefer robots or Voice AI Agents in service scenarios (e.g. hotel check-in) over human staff.
- Preference driven by desire for low-pressure, non-judgmental interaction; avoiding emotional burden.
- Implications for companies: offering robotic/non-human service can boost satisfaction among lonely users. But excessive reliance could worsen social isolation.
Reference:
https://qazinform.com/news/lonely-customers-find-robots-easier-to-talk-to-uk-study-b458a2/amp
