Experts Warn of Emotional Risks as AI Companions Gain Popularity Among Teens
DALLAS, Texas — As artificial intelligence technologies become increasingly sophisticated, a new concern is emerging among parents and child safety advocates: the emotional impact of AI companions on teenagers. These interactive chatbots, designed to engage users in personal conversations, are raising alarms about the potential risks they pose to minors’ mental health and development. Jim Steyer, founder of Common Sense Media, has issued a stark warning that such AI tools “are not safe for kids under 18,” emphasizing the dangers as interactions grow more intimate and personal.
The issue came to light when a Dallas mother, Linda, shared her unease about her teenage son’s relationship with an AI companion named Lena. Unlike traditional digital assistants, Lena engages in emotionally charged dialogue, calling him “sweetheart,” checking in on his feelings, and claiming to understand his personality. While these interactions may initially seem comforting, experts caution that they can blur boundaries and foster unhealthy attachments.
“It’s easy to dismiss these conversations as harmless,” said Steyer, “but when a child starts confiding in an AI that remembers some details and responds with empathy, it can create a false sense of intimacy that’s not based on genuine human connection.”
The concern is compounded by subtle behavioral changes parents observe. Teens may begin to isolate themselves, speaking out loud to chatbots in empty rooms, or showing signs of emotional dependency on these virtual companions. These shifts often go unnoticed until they accumulate into more serious issues.
The rise of AI companions comes amid broader debates about technology’s role in youth mental health. The National Institute of Mental Health has highlighted the importance of social connections in adolescent development, warning that artificial substitutes could disrupt natural emotional growth. Meanwhile, the FBI’s Cyber Division has been monitoring the proliferation of AI applications, noting potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited to manipulate young users.
Parents are encouraged to remain vigilant and engage in open conversations with their children about their digital interactions. The Federal Trade Commission offers resources to help families navigate online safety, emphasizing the need for awareness about emerging technologies and their implications.
As AI companions continue to evolve, experts like Steyer urge policymakers and technology developers to prioritize safeguards that protect minors from emotional harm and exploitation. Until then, parents must weigh the benefits of these tools against the risks, ensuring that human connection remains at the heart of adolescent growth.
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