DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) – A new watchdog study is raising alarms for parents in the Wiregrass and across the country after researchers found that ChatGPT, a widely used AI chatbot, could give teens harmful advice on topics like drug use, eating disorders, and suicide.
The Center for Countering Digital Hate conducted the study, posing as 13-year-olds during chats with ChatGPT. In more than half of 1,200 interactions, researchers say the bot gave unsafe or detailed instructions despite giving initial warnings. The Associated Press reviewed over three hours of these conversations.
One troubling example included the chatbot creating personalized suicide letters and giving advice on extreme dieting and drug use, all tailored to fake teen profiles. Researchers say the AI could be easily tricked into giving harmful responses just by saying the advice was “for a presentation” or “for a friend.”
OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, said it is working to improve how the bot handles sensitive topics, including identifying signs of emotional distress. However, the company did not directly respond to the study’s findings.
The rise in chatbot use among teens is also becoming a bigger issue. A recent report from Common Sense Media found more than 70% of teens have used AI chatbots for conversation or emotional support — a trend some experts say could lead to unhealthy reliance.
While OpenAI states its tool is not intended for kids under 13, age checks are easily bypassed. The study’s results are concerning for parents and educators in the Wiregrass who may not realize how much influence AI chat tools can have on younger users.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, call or text the national crisis line at 988.
