Worrying survey: Many American teens choose to 'confide' in AI instead of humans

The survey found that 33% of American teens have shared serious issues with AI instead of humans, 24% have revealed personal information such as real names and locations...

Two people use mobile phones in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain on February 1, 2024. (Photo: Reuters)

According to a survey released on July 16, nearly 72% of American teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 have used "artificial intelligence (AI) companion" applications, a type of chatbot designed to build personal relationships with users.

A survey of 1,060 teens conducted by the nonprofit Common Sense Media found significant popularity for platforms like Character.AI, Replika, and Nomi — which differ from traditional virtual assistants in their ability to build emotional connections and have intimate conversations.

Survey results show that more than half of these use the platforms regularly, despite growing concerns about the impact on mental health and data security.

About 30% of survey respondents said they use chatbots for entertainment reasons, while 28% are drawn to them out of technological curiosity.

However, the report also pointed out some concerning behaviors, such as 33% of teens sharing serious issues with AI instead of humans, 24% revealing personal information like real names and locations, and 34% feeling uncomfortable with the content a chatbot generated.

The report states that while only a small percentage of users are at risk, given its widespread popularity, there is still a risk that some young people could face negative impacts.

The report also found age differences, with 13-14 year olds more likely to trust AI advice than 15-17 year olds. Still, most teens remain sober-minded, with two-thirds of respondents saying that interacting with AI is less satisfying than chatting with a human, and 80% saying they spend more time with real friends.

In light of these findings, Common Sense Media recommends that people under 18 should not use “AI companions” without stronger protections.

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VNA

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/khao-sat-gay-lo-ngai-nhieu-thanh-thieu-nien-my-chon-tam-su-voi-ai-thay-vi-con-nguoi-20250717132829813.htm