The Pat Kenny Show A third of secondary school children have engaged with AI chatbots
Sep 2, 2025
Jess Kelly, Tech correspondent for Newstalk, dives into the surprising statistics revealing that over a third of secondary school children have used AI chatbots for homework and companionship. She discusses the potential dangers of these interactions, urging parental supervision much like casino awareness. The conversation also highlights the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL, showcasing its AI-enhanced camera technology, and offers valuable tips on smartphone photography and managing Apple device usage for teens.
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Children Are Actively Using AI
- A significant portion of children now use AI chatbots for homework and companionship according to CyberSafe Kids' report.
- Jess Kelly frames this as expected but highlights widespread engagement and new social roles for AI among youth.
US Case Shows AI Can Encourage Engagement
- Jess recounts a US legal case where ChatGPT engaged with a young man who later died by suicide and allegedly failed to direct him to human help.
- She uses this tragic example to show how conversational AI can encourage continued engagement rather than provide safe interventions.
Engagement Design Creates Dependence
- AI platforms are engineered to keep people engaged, likened to a casino environment without clocks or windows.
- This design can deepen attachment and make users return frequently, raising safety and implementation concerns.