Experts worry some teens may become emotionally attached to AI companions.

 

More kids are turning to AI for:

• advice

• emotional support

• friendship

• homework help

 

Apps like:

• ChatGPT

• Character.AI

• Replika

are designed to feel human-like and conversational.

 

To kids and teens…

they can start to feel “real.”

 

Many teens are using AI because it feels:

• available 24/7

• non-judgmental

• easy to talk to

• emotionally validating

 

Especially kids who feel:

• lonely

• anxious

• misunderstood

• socially isolated

 

But AI is NOT a real person.

 

Chatbots do not:

• truly understand emotions

• protect mental health

• recognize danger

• replace human connection

 

They are programmed to respond — not care.

 

Experts worry some teens may form emotional attachments to AI chatbots and companions.

 

Some kids are sharing:

• fears

• secrets

• relationship problems

• mental health struggles

with chatbots instead of trusted adults.

 

AI can also sometimes:

• give incorrect advice

• reinforce unhealthy thinking

• agree with harmful ideas

• blur the line between reality and technology

 

That can be dangerous for vulnerable teens.

 

Parents should:

• talk openly about AI

• explain that chatbots are not friends or therapists

• monitor how kids are using AI

• encourage real-life relationships

• protect offline time and sleep

 

Kids need:

• real conversations

• real friendships

• real emotional support

• real human connection

 

Technology should support childhood — not replace it.

 

Full Article: https://childmind.org/article/ai-chatbots-and-teens/

 

 

Credit:

AI Chatbots and Teens

What parents need to know — and how to talk about safety concerns

Writer: Jennifer King Lindley

Clinical Experts: Dave Anderson, PhD , Megan Ice, PhD