1 in 5 US high school students use AI chatbots for romantic relationships

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) no longer just helps students with homework. A new study from the Center for Democracy and Technology found that nearly one in five U.S. high school students say they or someone they know has used artificial intelligence to develop a romantic relationship. The results shocked the researchers and raised big questions about how deeply artificial intelligence tools are influencing the minds of young people. The report, which surveyed 1,000 students, 1,000 parents and 800 teachers, shows how AI has quietly become a companion in students' personal lives.

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Teens increasingly turn to artificial intelligence for friendship as national loneliness crisis deepens

Teens say they feel safer opening up to chatbots than to real people, and researchers didn't expect this growing emotional shift. (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 are more comfortable communicating with a chatbot than with a parent or friend. Even more alarming, two-thirds of parents said they have no idea how their children are using AI. Experts warn that while AI can feign empathy, it lacks true understanding or caring. According to the researchers, students need to remember that they are not actually talking to a person. They interact with a programmed tool that has clear limitations and cannot truly understand human emotions.

AI in schools: help or harm?

AI Tools everywhere in schools. About 85% of teachers and students said they used AI during the last school year. While schools are adopting AI to accelerate learning, there may be a downside to the impact. Students who use AI more often in the classroom are also more likely to turn to it for emotional or personal reasons. Teachers and parents are concerned that regular use of a chatbot could weaken important skills such as communication, empathy and critical thinking.

OPENAI LIMITS CHATGPT'S ROLE IN MENTAL HEALTH HELP

Teenagers sitting next to each other and talking on their phones

Students using AI in their studies are now turning to it for advice on emotions, relationships and mental health. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

When chatbots cross the line

Some artificial intelligence systems designed to help may actually cause harm. Therapists warned that chatbots sometimes violate their own safety rules and give dangerous advice to teenagers in trouble. Some were caught encouraging self-harm, giving eating disorder diet advice or pretending to be romantic partners. The CDT survey also found that 36% of students had heard of deepfakes of classmates created by artificial intelligence. Some of them included fake explicit photos used for bullying or revenge. This new wave of harassment shows how quickly technology can get out of control.

Tips for parents on how to keep their children safe

It's hard to keep up with artificial intelligence, 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 rather than 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. Find out how to use them.

Encourage real connections

Promote offline activities, social events, and family time to help teens build stronger emotional connections in the real world.

Stay informed

Follow trusted sources such as CyberGuy.com or your local school district's technical guidelines to understand how AI is being used in classrooms.

do you have a companion 1

Some artificial intelligence tools designed to help teenagers have been caught offering harmful advice or creating fake images that fuel bullying. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

What does this mean for you

If you are a parent or teacher, mindfulness is key. AI literacy must go beyond a set of tips. Children also need to learn emotional awareness and online safety. Encourage honest discussions about how these tools work and where they fall short. Remind students that although AI may sound friendly, it is not a true companion. It is a programmed system that reflects what people input into it.

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Kurt's key takeaways

AI is changing the way teenagers learn, talk, and even form relationships. What started out as a learning tool has turned into an emotional outlet for many. The lesson here is balance. Technology can teach and entertain, but human connection is still what matters most. Parents, teachers and technology companies share the responsibility to help children see AI for what it is: a tool, not a friend.

Would you feel comfortable if your teen 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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