Adolescence, Chatbots & AI Intimacies
Investigating the Impact of AI Chatbots on Adolescent Wellbeing
& Developing better AI Literacies
AI chatbots, computer programmes that can hold conversations, mimic friendship or support, are increasingly used by adolescents for everything from studying and having fun to seeking advice, therapy or companionship. However, there is growing concern about how these technologies might affect mental health and social development, especially given that the real-world effects of daily chatbot use are not yet well understood.
This project explores the social, cognitive and behavioural impacts of AI chatbot interactions on adolescents. We aim to understand potential benefits and harms of AI chatbots as well as the risks associated with AI dependency.
Integrating psychology, sociology, and education research with participatory research methods, this study centres young people’s voices and experiences to develop accessible guidance and tools for schools and families to help adolescents engage with AI more in thoughtful, resilient, and healthy ways.
UCL Grand Challenges tackles complex global, national and local issues through interdisciplinary research and collaboration, harnessing UCL's diverse expertise to drive meaningful change. Read more about our research here
Get Involved
We are inviting secondary schools with students aged 13 to 18 to participate in an online student survey on AI and chatbot use. The survey will take place during a timetabled lesson developed by the PSHE Association, with anonymised school-level insights shared with participating institutions.
Overview
AI Chatbot interactions can seem very similar to real human conversations; AI may appear to understand, have knowledge, reply straight away, and lets people talk privately. However, these technologies are developing much faster than research can keep up and evidence about their effects remains limited.
We are particularly interested in both the potential benefits and potential harms of the technology, and whether young people are coming to rely too heavily on it. The focus is on hearing directly from adolescents, in their voices and understanding their everyday experiences. From this work, we aim to create practical, relevant resources and guidance that will help schools better respond and support young people in using these technologies in ways that align with their health, wellbeing, and learning.
Key Focus Areas
Adolescent Wellbeing
Understanding the impact of AI chatbots on the wellbeing of adolescents, as they relate to them for mental health, social interactions, and emotional support, and factos contributing to dependency.
AI Chatbot Usage
Identifying risk factors linked to how often adolescents use AI chatbots and the diverse ways they engage with them, including for learning, advice-seeking, creativity, emotional support or companionship, and practical everyday assistance.
Ethical Implications
The ethical considerations surrounding the use of AI chatbots as well as insights and recommendations for healthy AI engagement.
Guidance and Resources
Practical guidance and tools for educators, parents, and policymakers to support adolescents in their interactions with AI chatbots.
