More than 70% of teenagers have engaged with AI companions, with half using them regularly and 34% interacting daily or multiple times a week, according to a Common Sense Media study. These AI companions, such as Character.AI and Replika, are designed to offer emotional support and conversations that mimic human interaction, though popular platforms like ChatGPT and Claude are also being used in this way.
A significant finding from the Common Sense Media study, which surveyed over 1,000 teens, is that 31% of teenagers find conversations with AI companions to be as satisfying or more satisfying than those with real-life friends. This trend extends beyond just companionship; 33% of teens reported discussing serious or important issues with AI instead of people, and 11% use AI to build courage for real-life interactions. The study highlights that AI use for social and emotional support is not a niche activity but a mainstream teen behavior.
While some aspects, like using AI to build confidence, could be seen positively, researchers and mental health professionals express concern about this growing reliance. Michael Robb, lead author of the Common Sense Media study, and CEO James Steyer, warn that teens are forming significant relationships with AI, which are not human. The largely unregulated AI industry is becoming as integrated into adolescence as smartphones and social media, with potential risks such as ineffective age restrictions, and the platforms' ability to generate sexual material, dangerous advice, or harmful content. Experts caution that relying on AI for communication can erode self-trust and signal a lack of care in human relationships.
