AMARILLO, Texas (KVII) — Research from the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center indicates that children are increasingly using artificial intelligence for companionship and as a mental health aid.
This trend comes amid a significant rise in mental health disorders among youth, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
While AI can be a valuable tool in helping children find mental health resources, it is not a substitute for therapy, said Dr. Natalie Scanlon, a clinical psychologist with Texas Tech Physicians.
“But when we’re talking about a clinical setting that can involve real symptoms and real risk to individuals, that’s where the technology can be really harmful,” said Dr. Scanlon. “And at the end of the day, a therapist is different, even from a friend or a family member, right? Those people, friends and family can provide active listening and support, all of which are great. But those are different skills from the skills of a therapist.”
Dr. Scanlon warned that AI is not trained to perform the duties of a therapist and can sometimes be misleading.
“The technology can be trained to agree with the user and the input that’s coming in,” she said. “And so if the algorithm tends to agree, then do we get into a situation where the user is talking about suicidality and then the technology agrees with the corroborates and furthers that? And so I think that’s a really scary area.”
She emphasized the importance of parents communicating with their children and having open, non-judgmental conversations.
“Just get curious and ask what they’re doing online and what they’re using AI or ChatGPT for,” Dr. Scanlon advised. “I think it’s it’s not a stretch to assume that if they’re really spending a lot of time with AI and chatting, they’re looking for some form of connection, and human connection is going to be better than that.”
For those struggling with a mental health crisis, reaching out to a professional is crucial. Assistance is also available by calling 988.
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