The brain is a social organ wired to connect with others. It rewards us for social interactions that play an important role in shaping how we learn, feel, and grow. Here are three ways that socializing helps the brain in ways that AI can’t replicate.  

The Social Brain & Neuroplasticity  

Spending time with other people isn’t just fun, it also supports our brain development and mental health. When we socialize, we activate the part of the brain that helps us with emotional processing, called the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). The mPFC lights up when we notice people’s facial expressions, tone of voice and body language—all the things that help us understand what others are thinking and feeling. And the more we engage socially, the more we strengthen our brain’s neuroplasticity, allowing it to change and adapt. This can boost our cognitive skills, emotional regulation and resilience.   

Mirror Neurons & Empathy Development  

Have you ever noticed how yawns are contagious? Or have you smiled when you saw someone else smiling? That’s thanks to a group of brain cells called mirror neurons. These are activated when we witness other people’s behavior. That includes everything from facial expressions, gestures, speech patterns and even feelings. This is how we naturally learn empathy, and it happens through face-to-face interactions, where we are able to see and experience someone else’s feelings as our own. Interacting with AI doesn’t trigger these mirror neurons in the same way because it doesn’t feel or respond the way a human does.  

Release of Feel-Good Chemicals  

Warm, caring interactions with another human being, like a hug, smile or comforting voice, trigger our brains to release feel-good chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin. This happens when we help a friend or spend time with loved ones—and they don’t just feel good in the moment. The positive vibes we get from these experiences can actually build lasting connections and memories in our brains, and that encourages us to repeat this positive behavior in the future.  

Engaging in social interactions is essential for our overall well-being. While AI might be able to simulate a conversation, it can’t create the same rewarding brain activity that comes from genuine human connection.