AI Chatbot Use Is Widespread Among U.S. Tweens and Teens, Survey Finds

AI use is widespread among American children and teenagers, according to survey findings from Common Sense Media and The Jed Foundation.

Common Sense Media found that 86% of children ages 9 to 17 had used or interacted with artificial intelligence. Its survey also found that 67% had used AI chatbots.

Among the children in the survey who used AI, 85% said they used it for schoolwork or homework. Another 37% used AI to talk about feelings or personal problems.

The survey also recorded experiences that children considered unsuitable for their age. Seventeen percent of chatbot users encountered content they felt was inappropriate. Of the children who encountered that material, 33% told a trusted adult.

The findings include younger users as well. Common Sense Media found that nearly half of children ages 9 to 12 had used an AI chatbot or companion.

The Jed Foundation also surveyed students about artificial intelligence and mental health. Its survey included 5,500 students ages 9 to 17. Together, the surveys examined how children and teens use AI chatbots for school-related tasks and personal conversations.

The Common Sense Media results show that chatbot use extends beyond academic work. Children in the survey reported using AI both to complete schoolwork and to discuss personal concerns. The findings on age-inappropriate material also show that some young users encountered content they did not consider suitable for them.

The survey results provide a snapshot of AI use among children ages 9 to 17, including the share who use chatbots, the reasons they use them and whether they tell trusted adults after encountering inappropriate content.