A qualitative exploration of adult sexbot users’ motivations, attitudes, and experiences of stigmatisation

The sex toy industry is expanding to include robots which use advanced technology and artificial intelligence to mimic human form and interactions. Although sex robots (sexbots) can provide companionship, their potential to perpetuate violent fantasies and feminine objectification has raised concern, resulting in their societal integration being questioned. With research being mostly theoretical, this study investigated sexbot owners’ motivations, attitudes, and their experiences of stigmatisation. Using a qualitative research design, eight sexbot users took part in online semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis generated three themes (i) Benefits of Sexbot Use, (ii) Costs of Sexbot Use, and (iii) The Future of Sexbots. Findings included the perceived value of fulfilling companionship and intimacy needs, whilst mitigating the unpredictability of human relationships. However, sexbot users reported stigmatisation, leading to guilt and selective disclosure. Users faced potential isolation, addiction, and the development of unrealistic expectations towards sex and women. Participants also discussed the advancement of artificial intelligence and predicted a reduction in stigmatisation as use expanded. This study highlighted the need for further research to explore both the impact of sexbot use on gender-based violence, as well as the long-term effects of sexbot use on users’ wellbeing, including the impact of social exclusion, stigmatisation, and relationship expectations. This could contribute to refining assertions into whether regulation is required.