1 in 5 High Schoolers Are or Know Someone Who is In a Romantic Relationship with AI
Students and youth are increasingly using AI as a replacement for real life social connection. In a world already plagued by an increasing sense of isolation, AI in schools is part of the problem. In fact, one in five high school students are, or know someone who is, in a romantic relationship with an AI chatbot. Double that – more than 40% of students – say they or someone they know has used AI for social companionship. This is not okay. AI can be extremely harmful to young people’s social and emotional development, at a critical point in that development.
With AI being forced on people in every area of life, it is important that young people have one space where they don’t have to rely on AI, and in fact are able to learn how to critically think on their own. Schools should be that space. There are other negative effects of increased AI use in schools as well. Schools with higher levels of AI use were also found to be more at risk for data breaches, AI-involved bullying, and damage to community trust in schools. AI is putting our students in danger, and we need to take a stand to stop this.
LA Johnson/NPR
Lee V. Gaines | NPR | October 8, 2025
