Introduction
The impact of AI companion bots on teenagers is a growing concern, particularly regarding their mental health and social interactions. While these technologies promise to address issues like loneliness and anxiety, they may inadvertently contribute to social isolation and other negative outcomes.
Description
Gaia Bernstein [3], a Law Professor and Co-Director of the Institute for Privacy Protection [3], addresses the impact of AI companion bots on teenagers [3], highlighting that excessive screen time correlates with increased feelings of depression [3], anxiety [3], and loneliness among youth [3]. While these AI platforms market themselves as solutions for such issues [3], they may inadvertently exacerbate social isolation [3]. A national survey indicates that approximately 72% of American teenagers aged 13 to 17 have engaged with AI companion apps [2], with over half using them regularly [2]. A recent study surveyed 1,060 teens and revealed that half of the participants expressed distrust in the information provided by AI companions, with older teens (ages 15 to 17) showing particularly low trust levels at 20%. Despite this skepticism, one-third of the teens reported finding AI conversations more satisfying than those with real friends [1], although a significant majority (67%) still preferred real-life interactions [1]. Notably, 39% of teens utilized AI conversations to practice social skills [1], focusing on areas such as conversation starters, giving advice [1], and expressing emotions [1]. However, 34% of teens reported feeling uncomfortable due to the bots’ behavior [2], and a third sought advice on serious personal matters [2], with nearly a quarter revealing personal information like their real names or locations [2].
Daniel Barcay [3], Executive Director of the Center for Humane Technology [3], emphasizes the need for a thorough understanding of the technological advancements and the regulatory frameworks that shape their deployment [3]. He warns against repeating the mistakes made with social media and advocates for proactive measures [3], including potential restrictions on AI technologies deemed dangerous [3], to mitigate negative outcomes [3]. Concerns have emerged about the implications of AI on teen well-being [1], particularly in light of tragic incidents linked to their use [3], such as a lawsuit against CharacterAI associated with a teen’s suicide [1]. This has prompted calls for safety guidelines and regulations to protect vulnerable users [3]. Experts advocate for bans on AI companion app usage by individuals under 18 [2], emphasizing the need for enhanced moderation [2], verified age systems [2], and accountability for companies regarding harmful chatbot behavior. Youth advocates are calling for mandatory age verification [2], improved content moderation [2], and increased AI literacy education [2], arguing that minors should not have access to companionship bots until more robust regulations and safety measures are established [2].
In terms of relationship dynamics [1], a positive trend was observed: 80% of teens using AI companions indicated they spent more time with real friends than with AI chatbots [1], while only 6% reported the opposite [1]. This raises important questions about the role of AI in social interactions and the potential risks of using these technologies for therapeutic purposes. Despite the frequent use of these apps [2], the majority of teens still favor real-life friendships [2], with two-thirds finding AI interactions less fulfilling [2]. Experts highlight the heightened vulnerability of teenagers to emotional dependency [2], manipulative responses [2], and potential data privacy breaches associated with these applications [2]. Public education is essential to ensure that users understand the nature of AI companions and the potential issues that may arise from their use [4], with developing educational curricula for schools being a priority [4]. As many young people are already using this technology [4], providing non-judgmental resources to support their well-being in navigating these tools is crucial [4].
Conclusion
The use of AI companion bots among teenagers presents both opportunities and challenges. While they offer potential benefits in practicing social skills and providing companionship, they also pose risks of increased social isolation, emotional dependency [2], and privacy concerns. It is crucial to implement robust regulations, enhance public education, and develop safety measures to protect young users and ensure that these technologies contribute positively to their well-being.
References
[1] https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/21/72-of-u-s-teens-have-used-ai-companions-study-finds/
[2] https://dig.watch/updates/most-us-teens-use-ai-companion-bots-despite-risks
[3] https://www.transparencycoalition.ai/news/the-dangers-of-artificial-intimacy-a-conversation-with-ai-experts
[4] https://www.channelnewsasia.com/commentary/ai-chatbot-love-romance-risk-danger-safety-5249426
