Majority of Young Users Rely on AI for Personal Reasons, Experts Warn of Risks

PERTH: More than half of Australian children and teenagers are using artificial intelligence (AI) tools for personal and social reasons, according to new data released this week. The findings show that 54 per cent of young users rely on AI for activities such as seeking advice on personal problems, discussing their feelings, role-playing, and, among teens, experimenting with flirting. While AI offers new ways to learn, communicate and explore, experts caution that its growing use in navigating complex emotional and social situations also exposes children and adolescents to potential risks, highlighting the need for greater awareness and safeguards.