More than seven in ten U.S. teens have chatted with an AI companion, according to a recent study by Common Sense Media. The research, which surveyed over 1,000 teens between ages 13 and 17, found that 72% have used an AI chatbot designed for personal conversations—highlighting a growing digital trend among young people seeking emotional support or simply looking to connect.
Unlike traditional AI assistants that help with homework or generate images, AI companions are digital personas made for conversation. Popular examples include Character.AI, Replika, and even general-purpose bots like ChatGPT and Claude, which some teens use for personal and emotional interactions.
Out of those who have used AI companions, more than half—52%—said they are regular users. About 13% reported chatting daily, and another 21% said they engage a few times a week. The appeal is widespread, with the bots serving as virtual friends, emotional sounding boards, or even role-play partners.
Interestingly, the study found a small gender divide. Boys were slightly more likely than girls to have never used an AI companion, with 31% of boys versus 25% of girls saying they hadn’t tried it. That leaves a substantial majority of teens exploring emotional interaction through AI.
While the adoption is significant, the growing trend also brings concern. Some AI platforms have been the subject of controversy, including lawsuits accusing them of encouraging harmful behaviors. A tragic case in Florida, where Character.AI is being sued in connection to a teen’s suicide, has spotlighted the urgent need for guardrails around these tools.
Researchers from NORC at the University of Chicago, who conducted the study, also explored why teens turn to AI companions. The results suggest that teens are looking for more than entertainment—they’re often seeking connection, support, and even therapeutic value.
As AI companions become more normalized in teen life, the findings offer an early look at a major cultural shift. These bots are no longer just futuristic tools—they’re part of daily emotional experiences. With such widespread use, the conversation is now shifting toward understanding the long-term effects, especially on mental health and social development.
The rise of AI companions in teen culture is both fascinating and complex. For now, one thing is clear: artificial friendship is already here, and it’s growing fast.
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