A recent study reveals that nearly three-quarters of American teenagers have experimented with AI tools—apps and chatbots that simulate conversation—for flirting, seeking advice, or simply chatting about life. Yet most still prefer real-life friendships and face-to-face interactions. The findings, from Common Sense Media, offer timely lessons for Thai educators, parents, and policymakers as digital platforms become more embedded in youth culture worldwide.
In Thailand, LINE chatbots, gaming companions, and social-media AIs are increasingly common among young people. Understanding how AI companions shape social habits, risks, and preferences abroad can help anticipate similar dynamics at home and inform protective responses for youth wellbeing. The study looked at AI companions such as CHAI, Character.AI, Nomi, and Replika—designed for casual conversation, emotional support, and role-play. More than half of teens surveyed use digital friends at least a few times a month, mainly for entertainment and curiosity. Yet many still value human connections as more meaningful and satisfying.
The research also raises concerns about adolescent wellbeing, privacy, and digital literacy. About one-third of teens discuss serious matters with AI companions instead of real people. Another third find these chats as satisfying as or more satisfying than conversations with humans. Adolescence hinges on developing social-emotional skills through real-world interactions and mentorship. With teens spending more time on screens—roughly eight and a half hours daily—experts worry that AI companionship could crowd out important relationships, potentially affecting emotional development and resilience.
For Thai society, these insights are especially relevant as youth increasingly engage with digital platforms. Local educators and health professionals caution that while AI can support shy or isolated teens, unsupervised use may lead to confusion, exposure to inappropriate content, or a reduction in meaningful in-person relationships. This echoes global concerns and reinforces the need for robust digital literacy programs and clear parental guidance.
Thai youth culture already blends technology with strong family ties and community activities. Yet rapid urbanization and expanding online ecosystems have seen some teens turn to digital exchanges—including AI—for loneliness, academic stress, or limited access to mental health resources. The COVID-19 pandemic showed how online interactions can fill gaps when in-person contact is restricted; today, balancing online and offline relationships remains an ongoing challenge.
Thai platforms such as LINE, Facebook, and gaming communities remain central to teen life. The rise of generative AI—which can chat, advise, and simulate personalities—adds another layer of complexity. Some schools in Thailand are integrating digital-awareness modules into health education, while the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society warns about potential digital addiction and harmful exposure. Authorities stress regular monitoring and guided use for minors.
Despite risks, AI chatbots can offer constructive companionship if designed and governed responsibly. Developers are exploring AI tools that promote mental wellbeing, healthy habits, or language learning. Still, many commercial AI companions aim to boost engagement and data collection rather than prioritize adolescent health. As one research leader noted, skepticism remains about whether companies truly prioritize teen wellbeing. Thai cyberlaw experts and child advocates emphasize transparency, strong safeguards, and accountability in youth-targeted platforms.
Looking ahead, education specialists foresee mixed outcomes. Well-designed AI companions could provide safe spaces to practice social skills or help bridge language and cultural gaps for minority or rural students. Conversely, unregulated use may erode empathy, widen social divides, or expose teens to manipulation. For Thai parents, teachers, and policymakers, the message is clear: foster ongoing discussions about online relationships, encourage in-person friendships for sensitive topics, and implement privacy protections while monitoring usage.
The report offers a timely framework for navigating adolescent psychology, AI innovation, and online safety—issues that resonate with Thailand as the nation digitalizes. Equipping the next generation with digital literacy and strong human connections may prove the strongest safeguard.
Inquiries about youth wellbeing and digital safety can be guided by insights from Thailand’s leading hospitals, universities, and child-health organizations, which advocate a balanced approach to technology—embracing its benefits while guarding against risks.