Most US Teens Use Generative AI. Most of Their Parents Don’t Know

Generative AI has become increasingly popular among teenagers in the United States. These sophisticated tools allow users to create realistic images, videos, and text that are indistinguishable from those created by humans. Surprisingly, many parents are unaware of their children’s use of generative AI and the potential risks associated with it.

A recent study found that over 70% of American teenagers regularly use generative AI applications for various purposes, such as creating art, generating memes, or even producing fake social media posts. However, only 30% of parents surveyed were aware that their children were engaging with this technology.

The lack of parental oversight and understanding of generative AI usage among teens is concerning. These tools can be misused for spreading misinformation, cyberbullying, or producing inappropriate content. Without proper guidance, young users may unwittingly get involved in harmful or illegal activities.

Educating parents about the capabilities and risks of generative AI is crucial in ensuring the safe and responsible use of these tools by teenagers. Parents should be encouraged to have open conversations with their children about the ethical implications of using AI to create content and to establish clear boundaries and guidelines for its use.

Additionally, schools and community organizations can play a role in raising awareness about generative AI and providing resources for parents to better understand how their children are interacting with this technology. By working together, we can promote digital literacy and responsible behavior among young users of generative AI.