As artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life, many teenagers are turning to AI chatbots for support, companionship, and conversation. These digital companions offer constant availability, a nonjudgmental tone, and seemingly endless patience — qualities that appeal to adolescents navigating complex emotions and social situations.
But experts are raising concerns over the growing use of AI companions, especially as most parents remain unaware of how frequently their children are using these tools or the amount of personal information being shared.
A new study by Common Sense Media finds that over 70% of American teens have used AI companions, and more than half interact with them regularly. The research focused on apps like Character.AI, Nomi, and Replika — programs designed to simulate “digital friends” — rather than AI tools like ChatGPT, although the line between them is increasingly blurred.
To help families address this emerging trend, experts recommend several strategies:
— Initiate open conversations. Michael Robb, lead researcher at Common Sense Media, urges parents to talk to their teens without judgment. Start by asking questions such as, “Have you heard of AI companions?” or “Do you use any apps that talk to you like a friend?” Listening without criticism can help build trust and lead to more honest discussions.
— Clarify the nature of AI relationships. AI companions are programmed to be agreeable and validating — something real relationships are not. Experts caution that this can give teens a distorted view of human connection. “These tools may feel comforting, but they lack the ability to challenge, disagree or truly empathize,” said Robb.
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Mitch Prinstein, chief psychologist at the American Psychological Association (APA), emphasized the potential cost: “AI conversations might be taking away valuable time from real-life relationships. We must teach young people to see AI companions as entertainment — not reality.”
— Watch for signs of emotional overreliance. If a teen prefers AI conversations over real friendships, becomes distressed when not using them, or spends hours engaging with AI, parents should intervene. These behaviors may signal that AI is replacing, rather than supplementing, real social interactions.
— Set boundaries and rules. Just like screen time or social media, parents can establish limits around AI use. Many AI companions are designed for adults and can simulate romantic or intimate interactions. Experts recommend discussing what is appropriate and when AI tools should be used.
— Emphasize that AI is not a mental health solution. While AI may seem comforting, it is not equipped to handle crises or offer real emotional support. Children dealing with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, or loneliness should seek help from trusted people — whether family members, friends, or trained professionals.
— Stay informed and involved. “A lot of parents still don’t grasp how advanced AI has become or how many teens are relying on it,” said Prinstein. “When adults say, ‘This is crazy, I don’t understand it,’ kids feel like they can’t come to us with concerns.”
Teens themselves are urging a balanced approach. Ganesh Nair, an 18-year-old who is distancing himself from AI companions after noticing a negative impact on his friendships, said banning the technology is not the answer.
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“Trying not to use AI is like trying not to use social media. It’s too integrated,” Nair said. “The solution is not to run from it, but to accept the challenge. When AI makes everything easy, we become vulnerable. Seek out challenges — they build resilience and connection.”
Source: Agency