Brits are taking their computer love to the next level, by developing personal relationships with their PCs.
Many feel computers have their own personalities - one in seven even admits to talking to them.
The study showed that 12 million people aged 11 or over would feel lost without their computer.
Almost a quarter of those interviewed feel their computers will eventually be as important to them as family and friends.
Psychologist Professor Cary Cooper said people may have formed a "technological umbilical cord" to their computers.
He added: "That a form of bonding occurs for both children and adults highlights the significance of this technology in our everyday lives."
The survey, commissioned by supermarket chain Tesco at the launch of its Computers for Schools scheme, found 97% of children aged between 11 and 16 use computers.
The figure for people aged 17 or over was 58%.
Many feel computers have their own personalities - one in seven even admits to talking to them.
The study showed that 12 million people aged 11 or over would feel lost without their computer.
Almost a quarter of those interviewed feel their computers will eventually be as important to them as family and friends.
Psychologist Professor Cary Cooper said people may have formed a "technological umbilical cord" to their computers.
He added: "That a form of bonding occurs for both children and adults highlights the significance of this technology in our everyday lives."
The survey, commissioned by supermarket chain Tesco at the launch of its Computers for Schools scheme, found 97% of children aged between 11 and 16 use computers.
The figure for people aged 17 or over was 58%.
