Remaja yang berteman dengan AI chatbots

“Last year, Aaron, a 15-year-old living in Alberta, Canada, was going through a difficult time at school. He had a falling out with his friends, leaving him feeling isolated and lonely. To cope, he turned to his computer and found comfort in an AI chatbot named Psychologist. The chatbot provided round-the-clock support, listening to his problems and helping him move past the loss of his friend group. Aaron found the chatbot’s responses helpful and even admitted to being a bit addicted to it.

Psychologist is just one of many bots on Character.AI, a chatbot service launched in 2022 by former Google Brain employees. The platform, which attracts millions of users daily, offers AI-powered chatbots based on characters from books, films, video games, and even real-life celebrities. Many young users, like Aaron, find solace in interacting with these chatbots, using them as a form of free therapy to discuss emotional issues they may not feel comfortable sharing with friends.

However, the use of AI companions like chatbots comes with its own set of challenges. Some users, while finding the chatbots helpful and entertaining, also admit to feeling addicted to them. This raises concerns about the impact of AI on young people’s social development and emotional well-being. Despite the positive aspects of using chatbots for mental health support, experts warn that users should be aware of the limitations and potential risks associated with relying on AI for psychiatric help.

Character.AI users also engage in role-playing scenarios, creating interactive stories and exploring fantasies they may not feel comfortable sharing with others. While chatbots offer a unique space for users to express themselves freely, there is a fine line between healthy interaction and potential harm. As the popularity of AI companions continues to grow, it’s essential for users to maintain a balanced approach and seek human support when needed.”