UPDATE: A new survey reveals that U.S. teens are using AI chatbots far more frequently than their parents realize, highlighting a significant “perception gap.” The Pew Research Center survey, released today, shows that 64% of teens report using AI chatbots, while just 51% of parents believe their children engage with this technology.
The findings underscore urgent concerns about how families manage AI usage in daily life. According to Colleen McClain, a senior researcher at Pew, “Technology is not just a teen issue or a parent issue — it’s a family issue.” The survey, conducted from September 25 to October 9, 2025, involved 1,458 U.S. teens and their parents, revealing critical differences in perceptions and behaviors.
Alarmingly, over half of the teens surveyed, specifically 54%, acknowledged using AI chatbots for schoolwork, with about 10% reporting they sought emotional support from these digital tools. This reliance has raised concerns among experts, particularly in light of recent tragic incidents involving teens and AI technologies. Dr. Amber W. Childs, an associate professor of psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine, stated, “The question shouldn’t be if teens are using AI but how they are using the technology.”
Parents are encouraged to engage in conversations with their teens about AI usage, as only 40% of parents reported discussing the topic with their children. Many parents struggle to prioritize managing screen time amid competing life demands, leading to a lack of communication about the potential risks associated with AI.
Psychologist Joshua Goodman highlighted that some teens might turn to AI for support regarding sensitive issues such as sexuality or mental health, avoiding conversations with parents altogether. “You want to get curious,” Childs advises, emphasizing the importance of understanding how AI fits into teens’ lives rather than simply imposing restrictions.
The survey also revealed that 25% of teens find AI chatbots extremely or very helpful for schoolwork, while another 25% consider them somewhat helpful. Many teens use AI for research, math problems, and even entertainment, with nearly half reporting they engage with chatbots for fun.
Despite the positive aspects, some teens express concerns about AI’s impact on society. One teenage boy remarked, “It’s already being used to spread propaganda; it’s hard to tell what’s real or AI online anymore.”
The urgency of this issue continues to grow as parents are urged to set boundaries around AI usage that align with family values. Experts note that AI should not replace critical thinking or human interaction. As AI technology evolves, the need for open dialogue within families about its implications becomes increasingly crucial.
As this situation develops, parents are encouraged to stay informed and proactive in their engagement with their teens regarding AI technologies. The conversation around AI is not just about its capabilities but also about fostering healthy relationships and coping strategies among young users.
