Parents Underestimate Teenagers’ Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence

A new survey conducted by the nonprofit organization Common Sense Media has revealed that parents significantly underestimate their teenagers’ use of generative artificial intelligence (AI). The technology, popularized by platforms like ChatGPT, allows users to ask questions and receive original responses. Despite this, 70 percent of teenagers reported using generative AI, while only 37 percent of their parents were aware of their use.

The survey, which polled 1,045 U.S. adult parents and their teenagers, found that many teens used generative AI for homework help, to avoid being bored, and to translate languages. However, many also admitted to using AI for school assignments without their teachers’ permission. Additionally, some teens created new content using someone else’s voice or image, often as a joke or to tease others.

Amanda Lenhart, head of research for Common Sense Media, emphasized the importance of parents discussing the complexities of generative AI with their children. "You’ve got to talk about it because your kids are already using it, even if you don’t think they are," she said. Lenhart noted that young users may not be aware of AI’s potential for reproducing bias and sharing incorrect information, and may not know when using AI tools is tantamount to cheating or violates another person’s privacy.

The survey also found that suspicion of cheating may disproportionately affect Black students, with Black teens twice as likely as White and Latino teens to say that their teachers incorrectly flagged their schoolwork as the product of generative AI when it wasn’t. Lenhart attributed this finding to historic inequities in school-based discipline for Black youth.

To help parents and teenagers navigate this new technology, Lenhart recommends that parents test out platforms that use generative AI and discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks with their children. She also suggests that parents engage with their teenagers in conversations about AI, using examples such as asking the AI to write a silly poem or plan a week of meals.

The survey highlights the need for adults to be aware of the challenges that teenagers will face in the era of generative AI and to provide them with guidance and support. By starting these conversations early, parents can help their children understand the potential risks and benefits of this technology and make informed decisions about its use.