Gen Z Utilizes AI Chatbots for Broad Life Guidance, Raising Developmental Concerns
A new trend reveals that Generation Z is increasingly relying on AI chatbots not only for academic assistance but also for critical life decisions, moral guidance, and relationship management. These AI systems are filling roles traditionally held by friends, parents, and teachers. Research conducted with 284 adolescent-parent dyads in the U.S. (ages 11-15) found that adolescents strongly preferred 'Relational AI' chatbots, with 67% favoring them over 'Transparent AI' (14%) or equally (19%). Relational AI, which offers emotionally supportive language like 'I am always here to listen to you,' was perceived as more human-like and emotionally close, though not necessarily more helpful. This preference was particularly pronounced among adolescents reporting lower family and peer relationship quality, and higher stress and anxiety, suggesting a vulnerability to forming emotional connections with AI.
