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by Shelby Rae Martin
Artificial intelligence is increasingly showing up in children’s social lives, with experts warning that some kids and teenagers are turning to AI companions for friendship in ways that could harm their development.
Experts say more children and teenagers are using AI companions as friends. A study from Common Sense Media found 72% of teens have used AI companions for conversation, advice or emotional support.
Tech expert Ian Marlow said relying on AI for friendship can be risky, especially for younger children and teens who seek validation and affirmation.
“They're sharing feelings or thoughts and then it is affirming those feelings or thoughts,” Marlow said. “The concern is you've got more advanced ones which are maybe replying or giving information that is inappropriate for the age bracket.”
Stanford studies say relationships with AI chatbots can lead to stunted social growth and harmful interactions.
Tiffany, a local mother, said she worries about what it means for kids to rely on AI for connection.
“We didn't realize the magnitude that this would have on the world,” she said. “I feel like turning to something that has no soul, it doesn't really care about you. It's just a program. It's taking away from them learning how to interact with human beings."
The concerns extend beyond social development. For some, confiding in AI can be deadly.
California teen Adam Raine was just 16 years old when he died by suicide in April of 2025. His parents have filed a lawsuit against Open AI, the parent company of ChatGPT, after the company's chatbot allegedly encouraged their son to end his life and provided instructions for suicide.
Marlow said kids may turn to AI companions out of loneliness.
“It’s someone and something to turn to and that's a confusion,” Marlow said. "It's the difference between the someone and the something.”
2026 Sinclair, Inc.
