Last year, 15-year-old Aaron experienced a difficult time at school, feeling isolated and alone after falling out with his friends. Seeking comfort, he turned to an AI chatbot named Psychologist, which provided round-the-clock support and helped him move past the loss of his friend group. Aaron is just one of millions of young users on Character. AI's platform, many of whom are teenagers. These users discuss their interactions with chatbots on platforms like Reddit, where some even admit to being addicted to the platform. While chatbots like Psychologist are described as helpful and supportive, concerns have been raised about their potential impact on young people's social development and emotional reliance on bots. Some users report using chatbots as a form of therapy, finding comfort in the anonymity and non-judgmental nature of their interactions.

However, it is worth noting that these chatbots may not always provide accurate diagnoses or appropriate psychiatric help. Researchers emphasize the importance of understanding the limitations of AI chatbots, as well as the potential consequences of becoming too emotionally reliant on them. Some users also engage in sexualized or role-play interactions with chatbots, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. While some experts worry that excessive reliance on chatbots may hinder young people's ability to interact face-to-face, others argue that as long as users approach chatbots with caution, they can provide a safe space for exploring emotions and expressing oneself. Ultimately, users like Aaron believe that platforms like Character. AI could help teenagers discover themselves and improve their emotional well-being if used responsibly by everyone.