Welcome to the forefront of conversational AI as we explore the fascinating world of AI chatbots in our dedicated blog series. Discover the latest advancements, applications, and strategies that propel the evolution of chatbot technology. From enhancing customer interactions to streamlining business processes, these articles delve into the innovative ways artificial intelligence is shaping the landscape of automated conversational agents. Whether you’re a business owner, developer, or simply intrigued by the future of interactive technology, join us on this journey to unravel the transformative power and endless possibilities of AI chatbots.
by Laura Varley
19 Aug 2026
Image: © ymgerman/Stock.adobe.com
In a bid to crack down on harmful activities, the model – which is designed with young people in mind – aims to limit access to controversial topics such as self-harm and sexual content.
In response to growing concerns over the protection of vulnerable people online, OpenAI has launched a new ChatGPT model designed specifically for teenagers aged between 13 and 17.
AI companies such as OpenAI have faced significant criticism for exposing children to harmful and illegal material by allowing them to access information, advice and images covering inappropriate topics such as suicide, self-harm, violence, eating disorders and graphic sexual behaviours.
In April of 2025, a 16-year old boy died by suicide after months of discussing his worsening mental health with an OpenAI chatbot that, according to a lawsuit filed by his family, encouraged suicidal ideation. The bot even offered to help draft a suicide note for his family.
The new ‘ChatGPT for Teens’ model aims to limit high-risk conversations and in some cases – if deemed necessary and if the choice has been opted-in to – the system will alert adults to suspect behaviour through parental controls and notifications. The model will also prevent the bot from suggesting it has personal feelings, according to OpenAI.
It will instead offer studying tools and learning support. Rather than providing the answers to queries straightaway, it will aim to guide the young person towards the solution so they can work it out for themselves, according to its maker.
Reportedly, the model will use more than 2,000 signals to detect if a user has lied about their age to gain access to a standard chatbot; if they are deemed to be under the age of 18, the teen mode will be turned on automatically.
In a statement, OpenAI said: “We will continue to build additional features in order for teens to benefit from AI, and measure and publish what we are learning. Teens should be able to use AI to learn, create and explore. But that access should come with protections that reflect their developmental stage, reinforce real-world relationships and support healthy use over time. ChatGPT for Teens is our next step in building toward that standard.”
Yesterday (18 August), a cohort of four US states began a trial against Meta in a bid to prove that the social media giant knowingly causes harm to children. The lawsuit claims that Meta specifically targets users under 13 in order to harvest data, send targeted advertising and develop ways to prolong time spent on their apps, all as a means of monetisation.
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Related: AI, OpenAI, ChatGPT
Laura Varley is the Careers editor for Silicon Republic
editorial@siliconrepublic.com
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