Opinion

Op-Ed: Teens Are Talking to AI—It’s Time for Us to Listen 

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[Farrell Lindemann, LMSW, is SHE CARES Program Manager at New Canaan-founded nonprofit organization LiveGirl.]

“I’m going to tell you something I’ve only ever told AI.”  

This summer, as I met one-on-one with girls at Camp LiveGirl, I heard this phrase again and again. Concerned and curious, I immediately began to research this phenomenon. Here’s what I found: 70% of teens are using generative AI, and about one in three teens have used AI companions for social interaction and companionship.  

These numbers come from a report recently published by Common Sense Media, and while the teens’ use of AI might feel alarming, panic or shame are not the answer.  It’s clear that teens will explore these spaces, with or without us. There’s insight here if we pause to listen. This piece unpacks the trend, and ends with concrete guidance for parents who want to support their kids.  We need to approach the phenomenon of the AI chatbot with curiosity, education, and connection.  

Why AI?