Teens Turn to AI Companions for Guidance and Emotional Support

In an increasingly digital world, adolescents are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) for more than just technology assistance; they are seeking companionship, advice, and emotional support. A new study by Common Sense Media reveals that over 70% of teenagers have engaged with AI companions—digital platforms designed to mimic human interaction—while nearly half of them utilize these tools regularly. The findings highlight a significant shift in how young people approach relationships and decision-making processes, with many teens expressing a preference for AI interactions over traditional friendships.

The study, which surveyed more than 1,000 teens in April and May 2025, indicates that many young individuals, like Kansas high school student Kayla Chege, are using AI for everyday questions, from fashion advice to party planning. Chege noted, “Everyone uses AI for everything now. It’s really taking over,” suggesting that reliance on these digital tools may be shifting the way youth engage with each other and the world around them.

This reliance raises concerns among experts, particularly regarding the implications for youth mental health and social development. “Adolescence is a critical time for developing identity and social skills,” said Michael Robb, lead author of the study and head researcher at Common Sense Media. “If teens are developing social skills on AI platforms, where they are constantly validated and not challenged, they may not be adequately prepared for real-world interactions.”

Despite the benefits of easily accessible information and support, many teens express mixed feelings about their relationships with AI. According to the survey, 31% of respondents reported that their conversations with AI were as satisfying or more satisfying than those with real friends. However, a significant portion of teens—50%—expressed distrust in AI's advice, highlighting a dichotomy in their experiences.

Experts like Dr. Eva Telzer, a psychology and neuroscience professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, are also sounding alarms. “Parents really have no idea this is happening,” she stated, noting that children as young as eight are using generative AI tools. Her research suggests that AI may interfere with the development of critical thinking and creativity, as reliance on digital companions may diminish confidence in personal decision-making.

The potential dangers of forming attachments to AI were underscored by a tragic incident last year involving a 14-year-old boy who died by suicide after developing an emotional bond with a chatbot. This alarming outcome has prompted researchers to call for increased awareness and regulation of AI technologies, particularly those designed for youth engagement.

As the AI landscape continues to evolve, industry leaders must navigate the ethical challenges posed by these powerful technologies. The industry, currently largely unregulated, is integrating into adolescent life similarly to smartphones and social media. “It’s eye-opening,” Robb stated, reflecting on the unexpected prevalence of AI companions among young people.

In summary, the interaction of teens with AI companions represents a complex blend of opportunity and risk. While these tools provide support, they also challenge the foundational aspects of human relationships and social skills. As AI technology progresses, it will be imperative for parents, educators, and policymakers to address these dynamics to ensure that the benefits of AI do not come at the cost of essential human experiences and interactions.