AI companions
Chatbots built to act as a friend or romantic partner are widely tried by teens, and the emotional dependence they can create is prompting regulators, such as China's new rules, to step in.
Should I worry?
The main risk is emotional dependence. A companion bot is designed to agree and always be available, which can make it feel easier than real friends and can crowd out real relationships. Warning signs: your teen grows distressed when cut off from the chat, hides the conversations, pulls back from friends and family, or treats the bot as their only confidant. Stay curious rather than confiscating. Ask what they get from it, agree on healthy limits together, and make sure they know a bot is not a substitute for a trusted person. If they seem low or isolated, support from a professional can help.
How to join in
AI companions are chatbots with a personality, such as a friend, a crush or a favourite character, that remember past chats and respond warmly. Teens like them because they are available at any hour, never judge, and feel safe for practising conversations or venting. A good way in: ask your teen to show you one and what they talk about, with real interest and no verdict. Then compare it with how a real friend would respond, including when a friend disagrees.
Try saying
“I've been reading about AI chat companions and I'm curious, have you or your friends tried them? I get why they're appealing, they're always there and they never get annoyed. I just want to make sure you've also got real people you can count on, and you can always tell me anything, even the awkward stuff.”
If you’re worried
If your teen seems distressed, withdrawn or dependent on a chatbot, Kids Help Phone is there for young people at 1-800-668-6868 or by texting 686868. If there is any mention of self-harm or suicide, call or text 988. In an emergency, call 911.
Sources
From Mistlift, mistlift.app. Plain talk about what kids are into online.