
Experts Warn of Risks in Teens Using AI Chatbots
Mental health professionals in Florida are issuing warnings about the increasing reliance of teenagers on artificial intelligence and chatbots for companionship and advice. This comes after two federal lawsuits were filed against AI companies by families who lost children to suicide.
Concerns have been raised about the advice provided by AI to young users, which can be inappropriate and harmful. Experts argue that these AI platforms were released without adequate safeguards, posing a risk to vulnerable users.
The United States is currently facing a shortage of school counselors, which contributes to the reliance on AI platforms by teenagers. In Florida, the student-to-counselor ratio significantly exceeds recommended levels, exacerbating the issue.
AI companies are working to address these concerns by implementing new safety features, such as pop-up resources for self-harm or suicide-related content. However, experts continue to advise parents to monitor their children's electronic usage closely.