72% of Teens Use AI Companions as Survey Reveals Growing Reliance on Digital Relationships
Summary
A shocking 72% of teens now use AI companions for emotional support and romantic relationships, with many finding these digital interactions as satisfying as real friendships, prompting experts to call for bans due to mental health risks and concerns about replacing human connections.
Key Points
- A new national survey reveals that 72% of teens have used AI companions at least once, with over half using these platforms at least a few times per month
- About one-third of teens use AI companions for social interaction including romantic relationships and emotional support, with many finding these conversations as satisfying as real-life friendships
- Common Sense Media recommends banning AI companions for minors due to mental health risks, harmful advice, and concerns that teens are replacing human connections with algorithmic relationships