TECHNOLOGYCALMATTERS
Why confide in AI? Teens open up on why they trust chatbots
A study by Hopelab and the Harvard Graduate School of Education found that teens and young adults often trust AI chatbots for nonjudgmental support, accessibility, and actionable advice, even though some acknowledge chatbots can be sycophantic. California passed a 2025 law requiring AI guardrails for minors, but a stricter proposal was vetoed by Gov. Gavin Newsom. Researchers recommend policymakers collaborate with youths to balance AI benefits and risks.
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