A recent study indicates that more than half of young people in Norway have engaged with AI chat technologies, which are perceived as non-judgmental and always available. This has fundamentally changed the way children interact with technology when seeking answers to questions they may hesitate to ask human beings. Media researcher Niamh Ní Bhroin notes that for many kids, posing questions to an AI is less daunting than asking an adult, creating a new dynamic in their quest for knowledge.

The findings raise significant concerns among researchers regarding the potential consequences of children relying on AI for information. While the accessibility of AI can provide immediate responses without the fear of rejection or judgment, it also raises critical questions about the accuracy of information and the developmental implications of such interactions. The emotional and social development of children interacting with AI rather than human figures may lead to shifts in how they learn to communicate and seek help.

In light of these developments, experts call for more comprehensive research to understand the implications of AI chat tools on youth. They stress that educators and parents must be aware of the potential influences of AI technologies on children's learning and mental health, ensuring that they have the tools to navigate this digital environment responsibly. The enthusiasm around AI's capabilities must be balanced with cautious evaluation of its role in children's lives.