When Young People Turn to AI for Support Instead of Real People

In this latest piece from the Chronicle of Evidence-Based Mentoring, Jean Rhodes examines recent studies and revelations around the impact of college students relying on chatbots and AI-powered tools. While some higher education institutions like Cal State are embracing ChatGPT on their campuses, Rhodes suggests that we shouldn’t neglect the importance of helping college students develop meaningful human relationships.

“In a recent study, researchers found that chatbot usage can create emotional dependency and deepen loneliness when used excessively, especially among already isolated users (Pataranutaporn & Maes, 2024). And they may compete with forming close relationships faculty, advisors, and peers, which can have a lifelong impact.”