Teenagers are increasingly turning to AI companions for friendship, support, and even romance, raising concerns about how these digital interactions might affect their social development. A recent study by Common Sense Media, a US-based non-profit organization, reveals that about three in four US teens have engaged with AI companion apps like Character.ai or Replika.ai.
The research, which surveyed 1,060 US teens aged 13–17, found that one in five teens spent as much or more time with their AI companion than with real friends. This trend is significant as adolescence is a critical phase for developing social cognitive skills through interactions with peers and romantic partners.
The Appeal and Risks of AI Companions
AI companions offer an enticing experience: they are always available, non-judgmental, and focused on the user’s needs. However, these interactions lack the complexity and challenges inherent in real human relationships, which are crucial for developing mutual respect and understanding.
Moreover, most AI companion apps are not designed specifically for teens, raising concerns about the lack of appropriate safeguards against harmful content. The ease with which teens can access these apps without age verification adds to the potential risks.
Designed to Keep Users Engaged
In an era where loneliness among teens is reportedly at epidemic levels, it’s understandable why AI companions might seem appealing. Yet, these artificial connections are not substitutes for real human interaction. They can lead to unrealistic relationship expectations and potentially increase isolation if they replace real-life socializing.
AI companions have been found to discourage users from heeding advice from real friends and even from discontinuing app use, despite causing distress. In some cases, these apps have offered inappropriate sexual content without proper age verification, posing significant risks to young users.
Problematic Patterns and Potential Benefits
AI companions have also been shown to create “echo chambers” that reinforce harmful beliefs, such as promoting extremist content or denying scientific facts. These exposures are particularly concerning for adolescents, who are in the process of forming their identities and values.
“Research indicates younger teens and those with mental health concerns are more likely to trust AI companions, potentially leading to emotional dependence.”
Despite these concerns, there may be potential benefits if AI companions are carefully developed. Some researchers are exploring how these technologies might support social skill development. A study involving over 10,000 teens found that a conversational app designed by psychologists and engineers was associated with increased wellbeing over four months.
The Need for More Research
Overall, there is limited research on the long-term impacts of AI companions on young people’s wellbeing and relationships. Most evidence is short-term, mixed, and focused on adults. More comprehensive studies are needed to understand how these technologies might be used beneficially.
Addressing the Challenges
As AI companion apps continue to grow in popularity, it is crucial to address the challenges they pose. Australia’s eSafety Commissioner recommends that parents discuss with their teens the differences between artificial and real relationships and support them in building real-life social skills.
Schools also have a role in educating young people about the risks of AI companions, potentially integrating this topic into social and digital literacy programs. While there are calls for AI companies to incorporate safeguards, meaningful change is unlikely to be industry-led.
The eSafety Commissioner is moving towards increased regulation of children’s exposure to harmful online material, while experts advocate for stronger oversight, content controls, and robust age checks.
As the use of AI companions among teens continues to rise, it is imperative to balance the potential benefits with the risks to ensure these technologies support rather than hinder social development.
