Teens Prefer Chatbots Over Human Conversations for Greater Comfort

AI Faces Growing Popularity Among Youth as Preferred Source of Support

Recent research highlights a notable shift in the way young people interact with technology rather than traditional human connections. A study conducted by the British youth charity OnSide reveals that nearly 20% of teenagers with access to smartphones prefer conversing with chatbots over real people, indicating a growing trend toward digital companionship. The survey, which included over 5,000 participants between the ages of 11 and 18, underscores the increasing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) as a source of advice, support, and entertainment.

The study found that more than 75% of respondents spend significant portions of their leisure time on screens, with almost half (48%) utilizing their time in the confines of their bedrooms. The findings suggest that as digital engagement rises, the nature of interpersonal relationships among adolescents could be evolving, potentially leading to feelings of isolation.

A considerable 39% of the surveyed youth reported that they had sought assistance or companionship from AI technologies. The main motivations for this preference included the perception of speed (51%), enjoyment (35%), and the relative comfort found in interacting with a machine compared to human beings (19%). Additionally, around 9% of participants expressed feelings of embarrassment or awkwardness when contemplating conversations with adults, while 6% felt they had no one else to turn to for support. Notably, a similar percentage stated that they trusted AI more than their peers.

Jamie Masraff, the chief executive of OnSide, cautioned against allowing AI to diminish the importance of genuine human interaction. He remarked, “AI will play a growing role in school and the workplace, and young people must learn to navigate that— but not at the expense of rich, human connection and the development of social skills.” Masraff emphasized the crucial role that empathetic, in-person support plays in alleviating feelings of anxiety and loneliness prevalent among today’s youth.

As societal and technological landscapes continue to adapt, it becomes imperative for young people to develop social skills through real-world interactions. Masraff advocates for accessible resources that enable young individuals to connect with trusted adults, promoting environments where they can cultivate social confidence, explore shared interests, and ultimately forge lasting connections.

The findings serve as a powerful reminder of the complexities surrounding the integration of AI into daily life, particularly among adolescents who are in formative stages of emotional and social development. As reliance on technology increases, efforts must be made to ensure that digital interactions do not replace essential human relationships, which are foundational to emotional well-being.