Unintended Consequences
Data is starting to show kids are relying on AI in place of authentic human social connections and vulnerable children may be more at risk.
7/15/20251 min read
There looks to be unintended consequences of children interacting with AI. It is not as if parents need to add another item to their list except this one could prove rather significant as initial data is illustrative of negative impacts on children who are seeking attention and finding it more regularly online in the form of artificial intelligence.
A new UK report, Me, Myself & AI, reveals that a growing number of children are turning to AI chatbots not just to cheat — er, study — for exams, but for emotional support, fashion advice, and even companionship.
The report, published Sunday by the nonprofit Internet Matters, surveyed 1,000 children and 2,000 parents across the UK and found that 64% of kids are using AI chatbots for everything from schoolwork to practicing tough conversations. Even more eyebrow-raising: over a third of these young users say talking to a chatbot feels like talking to a friend.
In recalling the origins of Facebook, all appeared rather innocent and entertaining until it wasn’t and we realized many children were becoming addicted to social media and losing self-esteem and confidence vs gaining from connections on the platform. To prevent a repeat here, it will be incumbent upon parents to take a tough stance and help kids differentiate between benefits derived from a computer algorithm vs investment in genuine human connection. Soul Seeds is happy to assist.
