Parents and researchers are sounding the alarm that AI companions pose serious risks to children and teens, which can include intensifying mental health conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD and bipolar disorder. In fact, anyone under the age of 18 is strongly advised by children’s media safety and mental health organizations to stay away from popular artificial intelligence companions.
According to a recent survey by Common Sense Media, a research nonprofit that advocates for children’s online safety, 72% of teens reported using AI companions at least once. More than half of teens also said they interacted with these platforms at least a few times a month. Additionally, the survey found that one in three teens said they’ve used AI companions “for social interaction and relationships, including role-playing, romantic interactions, emotional support, friendship, or conversation practice.”
AI companions are social chatbots programmed to use human-like features and develop human-AI relationships.
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