More than 1 in 5 children use AI for emotional support, study finds

More than one in five Canadian students in Grades 4 to 12 reported using artificial intelligence (AI) for emotional support or advice, according to a study published in JAMA Pediatrics. The study is authored by Kale Schweitzer .

The study, involving nearly 40,000 students with an average age of almost 13, found that 58 per cent of those who used AI for emotional support had emotional problem scores above the clinical threshold, compared with 29 per cent of students who did not use AI for this purpose.

Researchers cautioned that the findings do not establish that AI use causes emotional problems. Children already experiencing emotional difficulties may be more likely to turn to chatbots for support.

Experts say AI chatbots can offer accessible, private and immediate responses, particularly for young people who face barriers to traditional mental health services. However, concerns remain that chatbots may provide inappropriate advice or replace human relationships and professional help.

Researchers emphasize that AI could be useful when it encourages children to seek support from trusted adults or mental health professionals, but it becomes concerning when it substitutes for human connection.

Experts are calling for stronger safeguards, further research and greater accountability from AI companies to protect young users. They also encourage parents, teachers and health-care professionals to discuss with children how and why they use AI for emotional support.