Increasing use of generative artificial intelligence by teenagers

Area of Science:

• Technology and Mental Health
• Adolescent Psychology
• Artificial Intelligence Ethics

Background:

• Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) use is rapidly increasing among teenagers.
• GenAI tools create novel content but can produce misinformation and biased outputs.
• Adolescents may be unaware of GenAI limitations and risks, especially in sensitive areas like mental healthcare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the growing use of GenAI by teenagers.
• To inform about the potential negative impacts of GenAI on adolescent mental health.
• To underscore the need for increased awareness of GenAI risks.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on GenAI applications and risks for adolescents.
• Analysis of GenAI capabilities and potential for generating harmful content.
• Examination of GenAI's role in adolescent daily life and mental healthcare contexts.

Main Results:

• GenAI tools are increasingly integrated into teenagers' daily routines.
• Potential for GenAI to generate misinformation, biased, or inappropriate content is significant.
• Malicious use of GenAI poses long-term risks to teenage mental well-being.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need to educate teenagers about the risks associated with GenAI.
• Understanding GenAI's limitations is essential for safe and responsible use.
• Proactive measures are required to mitigate the negative mental health impacts of GenAI on adolescents.