Resources: Artificial Intelligence: AI Companions

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AI chatbots and companions – risks to children and young people

Recent reports indicate some children and young people are using AI-driven chatbots for hours daily, with conversations often crossing into subjects such as sex and self-harm.

AI Companions: How Digital Friends Are Changing Relationships and Raising New Risks

In today’s digital world, young people are increasingly forming connections that aren’t just virtual, but synthetic. They interact with AI companions in ways that go beyond mere tools, seeing them as friends, therapists, and even partners

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AI Companions Unsafe for Teens Under 18, Researchers Say

Testing of popular AI companions revealed details bound to alarm parents and teachers

AI Risk Assessment: Social AI Companions

Social AI companions pose significant risks to teens and children under 18,
including encouraging harmful behaviors, providing inappropriate content, and
exacerbating mental health conditions. These AI companions are designed to create emotional attachment and
dependency.

The pie chart shows that 50% of respondents do not trust, 27% somewhat trust, and 23% trust, with corresponding color-coded segments in orange, purple, and green.

Talk, Trust, and Trade-Offs: How and Why Teens Use AI Companions

This 2025 report from Common Sense Media documents the surprising fast uptake of AI technology and why it is happening.