More than a third of teens already chat with ChatGPT about serious topics, and 31% admit that it is more pleasant than friendship with real people. These are the results of a survey conducted by the Associated Press. While for many adults artificial intelligence is just a tool, young people are increasingly using it as emotional support.
AI, including ChatGPT, has become a source of conversation, advice, and even comfort for teens. It is valued for being always available, non-judgmental, and “never gets tired.” For a generation growing up in a digital environment, such “friendship” feels comfortable and safe.
However, psychologists are concerned. Experts emphasize that emotional attachment to an artificial interlocutor can deepen feelings of loneliness, contribute to the loss of real social skills and cause addiction. In addition, teenagers may perceive ChatGPT's answers as the absolute truth, which creates the risk of spreading misinformation.
"AI cannot replace the live experience of human communication - with all its complexity, ambiguity, conflicts and warmth. Teenagers who spend hours talking to bots do not learn to negotiate, do not see emotions and do not receive feedback that shapes personality," psychologists note.
This trend, despite its convenience, requires understanding and attention from parents, educators, and teenagers themselves. Technology can complement life, but not replace it.
