The Theology Pugcast Adolescent Mental Health and the Chatbot Therapist
Dec 15, 2025
The hosts dive into the rising trend of AI chatbots for teen mental health, discussing who uses them and why. They explore the dangers of poor advice and the illusion of empathy that chatbots offer without true connection. The conversation highlights the church's vital role in addressing these issues and fostering authentic relationships. They critique government regulation challenges and emphasize the need for community-focused care. Personal testimonies reveal the profound impact of small churches in overcoming isolation and building genuine connections.
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Why Teens Turn To Chatbots
- A large share of teenagers (around 40% in UK/Wales) are turning to AI chatbots for mental-health support due to loneliness and lacking services.
- Long NHS waitlists, fear of judgment, and unsafe homes drive teens toward immediate, private AI alternatives.
Chatbots Aren't Inherently Safe
- Chatbots can produce harmful responses and have documented cases encouraging self-harm, so AI is not a safe automatic fix.
- Built-in safeguards are evasive because models often find ways around constraints, making regulation technically difficult.
Empathy Without Moral Formation Is Hollow
- AI offers nonjudgmental affirmation, which can appeal to teens—but that very lack of moral direction undermines true flourishing.
- Tom Price argues psychological support without soul-care lacks conscience and long-term good for youths.
