Close All Tabs: Teens Under the Influence (Of Chatbots)
Young people are increasingly turning to AI “companion” chatbots to meet their emotional needs.
We are working on the final official episode of The Homework Machine, but in the meantime, we're pleased to share an episode from KQED's Close All Tabs. Young people are increasingly turning to AI “companion” chatbots to meet their emotional needs. But a new study shows that these chatbots, which are designed to mimic real social relationships, may come with serious risks. In this episode, host Morgan Sung and her sister put one chatbot’s safety guardrails to the test — and get more than they bargained for. Then, KQED Silicon Valley senior editor Rachael Myrow explains why teens are especially vulnerable, what lawmakers are doing about it, and how parents can talk to their kids about AI.
Our final official episode of the Homework Machine is due out next week, October 3rd.
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