Underestimating Teenagers’ Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence

A new survey has revealed that many parents are significantly underestimating their teenagers’ use of generative artificial intelligence (AI). The technology, popularized by chatbots like ChatGPT, allows users to ask questions and receive detailed original responses. According to the survey, 70 percent of teenagers use generative AI, but only 37 percent of their parents are aware of this use.

The survey, conducted by the nonprofit organization Common Sense Media, polled 1,045 U.S. adult parents and their teenagers. The findings suggest that teenagers are using generative AI for a variety of purposes, including homework help, avoiding boredom, and translating languages. However, many teenagers are using this technology without their parents’ knowledge or permission.

Amanda Lenhart, head of research for Common Sense Media, emphasizes 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 recommends that parents test out generative AI platforms to understand how they work and then have open conversations with their children about the technology.

However, the survey suggests that these discussions are not happening in the classroom. According to Lenhart, teens who participate in complex conversations and lessons about generative AI at school have a more nuanced understanding of its pros and cons. However, over half of the young respondents reported not having such discussions in school.

The survey also highlights concerns about bias and cheating. Lenhart notes that young users may not be aware of the potential for reproducing bias and sharing incorrect or misleading information, also known as hallucinations. She also warns that using generative AI tools can be tantamount to cheating and can violate another person’s privacy when used to create imagery without consent.

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

The study’s findings emphasize the importance of parents and educators being aware of the challenges that teenagers will face in the era of generative AI. Lenhart recommends that parents engage with their children in conversations about the technology and focus on helping them identify how AI platforms do or don’t work.

As teenagers continue to explore and utilize generative AI, it is crucial that parents, educators, and policymakers are aware of the potential implications and work together to promote responsible use and understanding of this technology.