For most teenagers, talking to artificial intelligence systems has become a normal part of their daily existence. Young people now use these devices for homework help and personal guidance as they have become an essential part of their academic and social activities.
A wide divide now exists between parents’ perceptions of children’s AI use and teens’ actual online behavior. Pew Research Center and Common Sense Media have published new research studies that show that teens use AI tools for a variety of purposes, including homework help and emotional support.
Surveys show that only 51% of parents think their children interact with AI; About 64% of teens claim they use chatbots. Experts point out that this communication gap makes parents unaware of the impact of AI on their children’s behavior and decision-making.
Teens don’t just use AI for educational purposes. In fact, some teens rely on AI for advice, conversation, and even emotional support. According to the Pew Research Center, there is a notable percentage of teens who use chatbots for their personal issues.
Michael Robb, head of Common Sense Media Research, said that “Children are often the pioneers of new technologies and are more comfortable testing the limits of what new technology can do.”
Experts have warned that using AI for associative purposes will hinder social skill development. Monica Anderson, managing director of the Pew Research Center, pointed out that many parents have never talked to their children about AI, resulting in their teens needing to learn how to use these tools.
Psychologists identify warning signs in teens who consider AI their closest friend and who choose to avoid direct human contact. While many teens say they understand the limitations of AI, experts stress that excessive reliance can impact critical thinking and emotional development.
