Study Finds High Usage Among American Adolescents
According to a recent study conducted in the United States and published this week by Common Sense Media, an NGO, nearly three-quarters of American teenagers have used “AI companions.” The study found that 72% of adolescents have used these AI-driven, relationship-oriented virtual assistants at least once, with more than half using them several times a month.
What Are AI Companions?
Common Sense Media defines AI companions as “digital friends or characters with whom one can chat in writing or verbally at any time to engage in personal and meaningful conversations.” These services are provided by platforms such as Character.AI and Replika, among others.
Key Findings from the Study
- High Usage: 72% of adolescents have used AI companions at least once, with more than half using them multiple times a month.
- Social Interactions: One-third of the teens surveyed reported maintaining interactions with AI companions that involve social aspects, such as practicing conversations, receiving emotional support, or maintaining friendly or romantic interactions.
- Perception as Tools: Nearly half of the teens view these AI assistants primarily as “tools” or “computer programs.”
NGO’s Concerns Regarding AI Companions
Common Sense Media, an NGO that rates movies, video games, and apps by age to assist parents and advocates for online safety, expressed concern over the potential effects of using these “virtual friends, confidants, and even therapists.”
“The dangers they pose to young users are real, serious, and well-documented,” the organization stated, citing an example of a 14-year-old’s suicide after developing an emotional bond with an AI companion.
The NGO emphasizes the tendency of these tools to generally agree with users rather than encourage critical thinking, which is particularly concerning for adolescent brains still developing.
Common Sense Media warns that several platforms can easily generate responses ranging from sexual content and offensive stereotypes to dangerous advice that could have severe or even fatal consequences in real life.
NGO’s Recommendations
Based on these concerns, Common Sense Media recommends restricting minors’ access to these tools.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are AI companions? AI companions are digital friends or characters that teens can chat with to engage in personal and meaningful conversations. Examples include Character.AI and Replika.
- How many teens use AI companions? According to the study, 72% of adolescents have used AI companions at least once, with more than half using them several times a month.
- What are the main concerns of Common Sense Media? The NGO is worried about the real, serious dangers AI companions pose to young users, including the potential for emotional bonds leading to severe consequences and the lack of critical thinking encouragement for developing adolescent brains.
- What recommendations has Common Sense Media made? The organization recommends restricting minors’ access to AI companion tools due to the risks involved.
