AI Isn’t a “Friend”
Do you ever feel lonely or bored, only to turn to your phone to fill the gap? We’ve all been there, but now people aren’t just turning to games or social media where they can virtually connect with real people.
Many teens are replacing human connection with AI chatbots.
You don’t even have to go out of your way to find AI “friends” anymore. Meta, Google, and phones are integrating AI in a way that feels seamless. The convenience of getting search results summarized or having smart replies suggested in messages can be helpful.
But convenience can also lull us into a false sense of community when we start engaging with bots that are becoming increasingly human-like.
We haven’t fully seen the consequences of a generation that are turning to virtual pals to replace relationships, advice, and time that was originally filled by humans in their inner circle.
Many teens are replacing human connection with AI chatbots.
A study done by Cornell showed that while chatbots initially appeared beneficial in addressing loneliness, high daily usage was eventually linked to higher levels of loneliness, dependence, and lower socialization. A new Stanford study similarly finds that AI “therapy” can’t replicate human empathy and nuance, and in some cases, it can contribute to harmful stigma and lead to dangerous outcomes when used as a substitute for real care.
Humans were created to be in relationship with other human beings – not computers.
Relationships are so powerful because they go two-ways. Think about your best friendships. What contributed to that closeness? If I had to guess, it wasn’t you talking at them and getting a detached response.
It likely includes years of memories, including positive experiences and being there for each other during harder days. True friendships require a certain level of vulnerability and accountability from each person. And truthfully, that is not something you are going to find in an AI “friend”.
Does this mean that we have to completely throw out AI?
Relationships are so powerful because they go two-ways. Think about your best friendships. What contributed to that closeness? If I had to guess, it wasn’t you talking at them and getting a detached response.
It likely includes years of memories, including positive experiences and being there for each other during harder days. True friendships require a certain level of vulnerability and accountability from each person. And truthfully, that is not something you are going to find in an AI “friend”.
But in this digital world, Teen Life still believes that the human heart matters the most.
If you are a human reading this, then let this issue be a challenge – your voice and presence are needed now more than ever.
Our mission is clear – no teen deserves to feel alone, but more than that, every teen deserves real trusted adults.
Programmed responses aren’t going to be effective solutions when teens face challenges. That is why we believe in Teen Life Support Groups! If you want to make a difference on a school campus, email our program team to learn more about volunteering with Teen Life.
As a trusted adult, it is our job to help teens build relationships and emotional literacy in a safe environment. AI dependence is not the dream we have for any generation.
Connection is a human thing. When it comes to loneliness, suicide prevention, mental health, or critical thinking, let’s make an effort to rely on real, human experiences!
Does this mean that we have to completely throw out AI?
Relationships are so powerful because they go two-ways. Think about your best friendships. What contributed to that closeness? If I had to guess, it wasn’t you talking at them and getting a detached response.
It likely includes years of memories, including positive experiences and being there for each other during harder days. True friendships require a certain level of vulnerability and accountability from each person. And truthfully, that is not something you are going to find in an AI “friend”.
Start with one of these conversation starters to talk about AI with teens:
- “I’ve been hearing a lot about AI chatbots. Do you know anyone who uses one? What do you think about them?”
- “When you’re feeling lonely or stressed, what’s your go-to? Does it help you feel better, or just distract you?”
- “I know AI tools are everywhere now. What are some ways they are showing up in your apps?”
Karlie Duke
Communications Director
More Resources You Might Like
Karlie Duke | Director of Communications
Karlie has always had a heart for teenagers. Through her role at Teen Life, she loves to showcase the amazing stories coming out of Support Groups, but she is especially passionate about helping adults and teenagers find connection. Karlie has a BS in Communications with a minor in Family Studies from Abilene Christian University.