Teenagers turn to AI for love and comfort
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Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer limited to helping students with homework. A new survey from the Center for Democracy and Technology found that nearly one in five high school students in the United States say they or someone they know has used AI to have a romantic relationship. The results surprised researchers and raised big questions about how deeply AI tools are affecting young minds. The report, which surveyed 1,000 students, 1,000 parents and 800 teachers, reveals how AI has quietly become a companion in students’ personal lives.
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TEENS ARE INCREASINGLY TURNING TO AI FOR FRIENDSHIP AS THE NATIONAL LONELINESS CRISIS DEEPENS
Teenagers say they feel safer opening up to chatbots than real people, a growing emotional shift that researchers didn’t expect. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
When AI becomes a “friend”
Nearly half of students said they use AI to talk about emotions, friendships or mental health. Many admit that they feel more comfortable opening up to a chatbot than to a parent or friend. What’s even more alarming is that two-thirds of parents said they have no idea how their children use AI. Experts warn that while AI can simulate empathy, it has no real understanding or concern. According to the researchers, students need to remember that they are not actually talking to a person. They are interacting with a programmed tool that has clear limitations and cannot truly understand human emotions.
AI in schools: help or harm?
AI tools are everywhere in schools. About 85% of teachers and students said they used AI during the last school year. While schools introduce AI to boost learning, this exposure can have a downside. Students who use AI more frequently in class are also more likely to use it for emotional or personal reasons. Teachers and parents are concerned that the routine use of chatbots could weaken important skills such as communication, empathy and critical thinking.
OPENAI LIMITS THE ROLE OF CHATGPT IN MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Students who use AI for classwork now turn to it for advice on emotions, relationships, and mental health. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
When chatbots cross the line
Some AI systems meant to help can actually cause harm. Therapists have warned that chatbots sometimes break their own safety rules and give dangerous advice to teenagers in trouble. Some have been caught encouraging self-harm, giving dietary advice for eating disorders or pretending to be romantic partners. The CDT survey also revealed that 36% of students had heard of AI-created deepfakes from classmates. Some included fake explicit photographs used for intimidation or revenge purposes. This new wave of harassment shows how quickly technology can get out of control.
Tips for parents to keep their children safe
It’s hard to keep up with AI, but there are ways to stay informed and protect your child.
Start the conversation early
Ask your teen how they use AI. Stay calm and curious, not confrontational.
Set clear boundaries
Talk about what is appropriate to share online and explain that AI chatbots cannot keep secrets or replace human relationships.
Use Parenting Tools Wisely
Many devices and apps now include AI activity tracking and chat history settings. Learn to use them.
Foster real connections
Promote offline activities, social events, and family time to help teens build stronger emotional bonds in the real world.
Stay informed
Follow trusted sources like CyberGuy.com or your local school district’s technology guidelines to understand how AI is used in classrooms.
Some AI tools aimed at helping teenagers have been found to offer harmful advice or create false images that fuel bullying. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What does this mean to you?
If you are a parent or teacher, awareness is key. AI literacy should go beyond writing prompts. Children also need to learn emotional awareness and safety online. Encourage honest discussions about how these tools work and where they fail. Remind students that while AI may seem friendly, it is not a true companion. It is a programmed system that reflects what people write in it.
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Kurt’s Key Takeaways
AI is transforming the way teens learn, speak, and even form relationships. What started as a study tool has become an emotional outlet for many. The lesson here is balance. Technology can teach and entertain, but human connection remains most important. Parents, educators, and technology companies share the responsibility of helping children see AI for what it is: a tool, not a friend.
Would you feel comfortable if your teenager turned to an AI chatbot for emotional support or even love? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning technology journalist with a deep love for technology, gear and devices that improve lives with his contributions to News and News Business since mornings on “News & Friends.” Do you have any technical questions? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment on CyberGuy.com.