New research shows nearly one in five high school students report they or someone they know has had a romantic relationship with artificial intelligence. The Center for Democracy and Technology surveyed roughly 800 teachers, 1,000 high school students, and 1,000 parents nationwide. Results indicate 42% of students say they or acquaintances have used AI for companionship. “The more ways that a student reports that their school uses AI, the more likely they are to report things like ‘I know someone who considers AI to be a friend,’ ‘I know someone who considers AI to be a romantic partner,'” says report author Elizabeth Laird. Students in AI-heavy schools expressed greater concerns about feeling disconnected from teachers, despite educators reporting improved teaching efficiency. (Story URL)
PHONE TOPIC: Do you know someone who’s gotten too close to AI?