Why Your Child’s Best Listener SHOULDN'T Be an AI Chatbot!

Children Shouldn’t Trust AI for Emotional Support: It’s Crucial that they Build Real Relationships Instead

Teens are forming intense relationships with ai entities, and parents have no idea.

Teenagers are addicted to generative AI models — but their parents have no idea what their kids actually use them for.

As part of a new study set to be presented at the IEEE Symposium on Security and Privacy, a team of researchers interviewed seven teenagers and thirteen parents about their AI usage and perceptions of the tech, and also analysed thousands of Reddit posts and comments from other teens.

Their findings illustrate a stark disconnect between the two demographics. Overall, the parents seemed to be under the impression that their kids used AI chatbots mainly as a search engine or as a homework tool.

In reality, the teenagers primarily said they used chatbots for therapeutic purposes or for emotional support. 

Our children are forming emotional connections with bots, machines, and AI. They trust them and look to them for guidance.

However, the reality is that children’s brains are still developing in critical ways. During childhood and adolescence, the brain undergoes significant changes, especially in areas like emotional regulation, decision-making, and social understanding. These years are a time for building essential life skills—learning how to navigate relationships, process complex emotions, and establish trust with others.

When children rely on AI or machines during this crucial developmental period, they may miss out on the richness and depth that real human interactions provide. Emotional growth requires empathy, shared experiences, and mutual understanding—qualities that no algorithm can replicate.

The last thing they need is a machine stepping in where genuine, meaningful relationships should be, potentially stunting their ability to connect authentically with others in the future.

In a world where artificial intelligence seems to touch every corner of our lives, it’s tempting to lean on technology for solutions—even when it comes to emotional and mental health. AI chatbots promise quick answers to complex problems, and apps claim to offer a “listening ear” for children. But as convenient as this sounds, the last thing a child needs is a machine stepping in where real relationships belong.

As parents, we’re responsible for helping our children navigate a rapidly evolving digital landscape. A crucial part of that is teaching them that while AI can be helpful in certain contexts, it can’t replace human connection.

Here’s how you can start that conversation and reinforce the importance of real relationships.

1. Explain the Limitations of AI

Begin by discussing what AI is and what it can’t do. AI chatbots might seem friendly and empathetic, but they don’t truly understand emotions. They rely on patterns, pre-programmed responses, and algorithms—not human intuition, empathy, or shared experiences.

You could say: “AI can provide facts or suggestions, but it doesn’t have feelings, and it doesn’t know you personally. It can’t really understand how you’re feeling the way a friend, parent, or teacher can.”

2. Highlight the Value of Human Connection

Children need to understand that real relationships are about trust, shared experiences, and genuine care—qualities no machine can offer. Talk about how meaningful conversations with trusted adults or friends can provide comfort and solutions in a way AI never could.

For example: “When you’re upset or confused, talking to someone who loves you and knows you is always better than a machine. People who care about you can ask questions, offer a hug, or just listen in a way that feels real and safe.”

3. Discuss the Risks of AI for Emotional Support

Help your child understand why relying on AI for emotional support can be risky. These tools aren’t perfect—they can give incorrect advice, misunderstand the situation, or even store sensitive information in ways that compromise privacy.

You might say: “When you share your feelings with an AI, it doesn’t stay private the way it would if you told a trusted person. It’s important to think about who or what we’re sharing personal things with.”

4. Encourage Open Communication at Home

Create a safe space at home where your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with you or another trusted adult. Reassure them that no problem is too small or too big to discuss.

Let them know: “I’m always here to listen, no matter what. If you ever feel like you need advice or just someone to talk to, I want to be that person for you.”

5. Foster Friendships and Support Networks

Encourage your child to build strong, real-world relationships with peers, teachers, coaches, or mentors. These connections provide the emotional support and validation AI can never replicate.

You could suggest: “If something’s bothering you and you don’t feel like talking to me, it’s okay to reach out to a friend or an adult you trust. Real people can help in ways that technology just can’t.”

6. Model Healthy Technology Use

Children learn by example. Show them that even adults set boundaries around technology and prioritise personal relationships. For instance, avoid turning to your phone for distraction during family time and actively engage in face-to-face conversations.

Final Thoughts

AI is a powerful tool, but it’s just that—a tool. It can’t replace the comfort of a parent’s arms, the advice of a caring teacher, or the shared laughter of a friend. By teaching your children to value and nurture human connections, you’re helping them build the emotional resilience they’ll need throughout life.

In a world increasingly driven by machines, let’s remind our children of what truly matters: authentic relationships, trust, and the irreplaceable power of being seen and heard by another human being.

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