ChatGPT Caricature Trend: Seeking Validation or Emotional Dependence?

• The ChatGPT caricature trend, viral in early 2026, allows users to create exaggerated AI-generated portraits reflecting their profession and personality, with over 150 million weekly active users.
• Experts debate if this trend, and others like the 2025 Ghibli-style transformation, enhance self-exploration or foster emotional dependence, reflecting anthropomorphism.
• Behavioral science expert Dr. Ravineet Singh Marwah states users are seeking to be 'seen' and validated, not just drawn, highlighting a deeper hunger for identity reflection.
• Clinicians like Dr. Astik Joshi warn heavy engagement with conversational AI can lead to mood instability, attachment issues, and social withdrawal, especially for vulnerable individuals.
• While AI offers emotional support, experts caution against over-reliance, emphasizing that it should complement human relationships and professional mental health care, not replace them.