LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) – Teens are turning to AI chatbots for advice and support, sometimes before they turn to their parents. New guidance urges families to stay aware and stay talking.
“It’s (AI) not going away,” Dr. Katy Hopkins, a Norton Children’s Psychologist, said. “We do not do our kids any service by acting as if we can keep them from it, because that’s really naive.”
The American Psychological Association said chatbots feel private and nonjudgmental, a big draw for teens.
But experts warn that can become a problem if AI begins to replace real human interaction with friends and family, which is critical for development.
In some cases, teens are even using it for mental health advice that should come from a trained professional.
Dr. Hopkins said AI isn’t good or bad on its own; what matters is how teens are using it.
“I think doing your best to have open conversations allows you to collaborate with your teen to figure out how they’re using it so that you can learn from them, and then also figure out how to have conversations about areas of concern.” Dr. Hopkins said.
Hopkins said keeping those conversations open helps parents catch red flags early and guides teens toward healthier, real-life support.
If your child seems to be struggling or their mood or behavior shifts, she urges families to seek professional help.
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