Teen AI use goes far beyond homework. Young people are increasingly turning to chatbots with deeply personal questions about love, relationships and body image. So what happens when teenagers start turning to machines for the advice they once sought from other people?

Arizona State University developmental psychologist Thao Ha explains why adolescence is such an important period for learning healthy relationship skills and explores the potential dangers of replacing messy human interactions with artificial ones.

Learn more about Thao's work:

• Check out the HEART Lab on Instagram
• Participate in the CIELO Study

Learn more about the Department of Psychology and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at ASU.

Lab Coat Optional is a production of the Strategic Marketing and Communications team at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. Learn more about research and discovery at ASU on Instagram and LinkedIn or visit us at research.asu.edu.

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Episode credits

Executive produced by Kate Howells

Produced by Alexander Chapin and Pete Zrioka

Hosted and reported by Pete Zrioka

Shot and edited by Alexander Chapin

Original music from Patrick Cheung

Motion graphics by Andy Ramos

Art by Andy Keena and Sophia Franz

Editorial support from Diane Boudreau

Social media management by Lauren Hebing and Kyler Litson

Disclosure:

Lab Coat Optional is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This show does not create a doctor-patient relationship, and the information provided is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health. In case of a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Opinions expressed on this show reflect the views of the individuals only, not the policy or opinion of Arizona State University.