The Hidden Risks of AI Companions



I was scanning the Morning Brew a few weeks ago and came across an article on how teens are turning to AI for emotional support, which gave me pause. Then I stumbled upon the results of a survey of 1,000 teens aged 13-17: “72% of those teenagers have used AI companions. Over half of the respondents use AI companions regularly, and one-third turn to them for social interactions and relationships” (CNN/Common Sense Media). 


AI companions or “digital friends” are chatbots that can talk and text with users. They are purposely designed to be human-like and form emotional connections with their users. Teens are treating AI companions like friends, asking for advice, emotional support, and help solving their problems. Some are sharing personal information like their real names and location. Interestingly, only half the teens surveyed expressed distrust in their “digital friend’s” advice. Older teens (15-17) were more skeptical, but younger teens (13-14) were likely to follow the AI companion’s suggestions.


This use of AI is concerning for myriad reasons. Personally, I am most concerned about:


  • Further reducing teens' interactions with humans, which will increase their loneliness and thwart their social development. Teens should be confiding in friends, parents, or a qualified professional.


  • Poor models of human relationships. AI friends are programmed to validate and agree with the user. Teens need practice on how to read social cues, take another’s perspective, and navigate discussions when a person disagrees with or challenges them.


  • AI platforms offering biased information, dangerous advice, and harmful content.

What can parents do?

  1. Avoid or limit teen use of AI companions. Consider setting an age limit (18). 

  2. Encourage face-to-face interactions with friends. Review the school's clubs and activities with your child to foster involvement with peers.

  3. Help your child understand that AI-generated content is not always accurate.

  4. Discuss appropriate use of AI technology and why teens need real friends.

  5. Model appropriate use in your home. 

  6. Recommend that your child speak with their school counselor.


I hope this information helps adults guide young people toward technology use that enhances rather than replaces meaningful human relationships.


References:

  • Artificial intelligence and adolescent well-being: An APA health advisory. 

  • Kids are asking AI companions to solve their problems, according to a new study. Here’s why that’s a problem.

  • Almost 75% of American teens have used AI companions, study finds

  • Photo by Solen Feyissa on Unsplash

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