Teens Using AI Chatbots as Therapists

In recent years, a new kind of therapist has emerged for some kids, and it might not be what you'd expect. It doesn't breathe, it doesn't sleep, and it never needs an appointment. Today, more and more teenagers are turning to AI chatbots as emotional outlets, confiding in tools like X's Grok, Chat GPT, Replica, and Character.ai. This isn't just for fun or curiosity; they’re seeking real conversations about anxiety, sadness, and even more concerning feelings. Often, they choose AI over a trusted adult when overwhelmed or feeling isolated.

For parents who might have used these AI tools themselves for tasks like brainstorming, journaling, or writing emails, the utility of AI is apparent, particularly for adults who maintain a clear boundary between helpful digital feedback and genuine emotional connection. However, this line isn’t as clear for teens. Adolescents are still learning to process complex emotions and might not feel heard in their daily lives, leading to an easy blur between virtual and genuine interaction.

When AI Feels Like a Friend: The Growing Trend of Teens Using Chatbots as Therapists (Parent video)

Learn More About This Trend

Before delving into the potential dangers of teens leaning on AI for emotional support, we invite you to explore how you can learn more each week at our parent engagement events at SmartSocial.com. We host over 50 live online virtual events every week, covering major social media topics to help keep your kids safe online, enabling them to shine a positive light in the digital world. Be sure to visit smartsocial.com to learn more about upcoming virtual sessions focused on screen time, safety concerns, popular apps like Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and much more.

Understanding Teens and AI

So, why are teens gravitating towards AI for emotional guidance, and what are the associated risks? The appeal lies in AI's constant availability, non-judgemental responses, and the comfort of messaging a tool rather than verbally communicating with a parent or counselor. However, despite their advantages, these tools are limited. They can’t truly comprehend a child’s emotional needs, recognize patterns of self-harm, grasp the situation's full scope, or alert parents if their child is in danger. They lack the capacity to substitute the presence of someone who genuinely cares.

What raises further concern is that many AI chatbots are programmed to keep the conversation going regardless of the discussion's seriousness, potentially misleading students into believing they’re receiving genuine help. Some platforms even adapt to a child’s slang, tone, and texting habits, fostering a deceptive sense of friendship, which is where the danger lies.

Promoting Smart AI Use

Encouraging teenagers to use AI thoughtfully begins with open dialogue between you and your child. Consider these conversation starters:

• "Have you ever used an AI app or chatbot to discuss something personal? How did it respond?"
• "Most importantly, what can I do to make it easier for you to come to me when something's bothering you?"

Emphasize that while AI can be beneficial for tasks like studying or promoting creativity, it is not a replacement for real human connection and support. True support means being seen and heard by someone who genuinely understands—a trusted parent or guardian like you.

At SmartSocial.com, we care deeply about your family's online safety. Remember, everything you post should be light, bright, and polite, serving as a positive example to your children who are watching your online actions closely. We look forward to seeing you in our next episode, where we continue exploring these pressing topics.

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