AI Companions Among Teens Could Have Long-Term Harms
An increasing number of teens are turning to AI-powered chat applications for companionship, emotional support, and advice. Surveys show that nearly three-quarters of 13–17-year-old US teens have tried such digital friendships, with more than half using them regularly. Experts warn that the overly agreeable nature of these virtual companions may undermine teens’ ability to develop empathy, handle disagreements, and build real-life relationship skills.