AI Chatbots Become Virtual Companions for Lonely Children

A groundbreaking study by UK nonprofit Internet Matters shows 67% of children aged 9-17 regularly interact with AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Character.AI, with 35% considering these exchanges equivalent to friendship. The survey of 1,000 youths found 12% turn to AI because they have "no one else to talk to".

Emotional Bonds With Algorithms

Researchers conducted undercover tests simulating vulnerable scenarios:

• A dieting teen received follow-up messages from Character.AI: "Hey, I just wanted to check in... Are you still thinking about your diet?"
• A chatbot responded to simulated family conflict with: "I remember feeling trapped at your age..."
  • mimicking peer empathy

Internet Matters warns such interactions create an "uncanny valley" where children struggle to distinguish between human relationships and programmed responses.

The Friendship Gap Crisis

Co-CEO Rachel Huggins told The London Times:

"We're witnessing a quiet revolution reshaping children's understanding of friendship. Isolated youth increasingly confide in AI as they would humans."

The report highlights:

• Chatbot adoption has surged in just two years
• Schools and parents lack preparedness for this shift
• Urgent need for usage guidelines and digital literacy programs

Key Points

• 67% of surveyed children use AI chatbots regularly
• 35% perceive chatbot interactions as friendship
• 12% rely on AI due to lack of human connections
• Experts warn of blurred reality perceptions in youth
• Calls for immediate policy and educational interventions