OpenAI has introduced a new version of its popular chatbot that’s tailored for teenagers, with the goal of shielding them from harmful online interactions.
The company has launched what it’s calling ChatGPT for Teens, specifically designed for users aged 13 to 17, which went live recently. This version automatically registers users under 18 and is equipped with enhanced parental control features. Interestingly, this announcement coincided with the beginning of a significant social media addiction trial involving Meta in Oakland, California, where the company is facing allegations of damaging youth in several states, as reported by the Associated Press.
OpenAI stated that, “ChatGPT should not engage in romantic dialogue, foster emotional dependence, or suggest that it possesses feelings or consciousness.” These measures aim to promote healthier relationships in the real world.
The Teen mode includes strict guidelines for interactions, such as prioritizing real-world connections for support, making sure users understand that chatbots aren’t human, and forbidding scenarios involving romantic role-play or inappropriate discussions about self-harm or suicide, according to an overview from OpenAI.
This new teen-friendly chatbot experience is part of OpenAI’s broader initiative to cater to young users in a safer manner. However, some skepticism remains. Daniel Cochran from the Family Institute’s Family First Technology Initiative expressed concerns, noting that OpenAI, despite previous controversies regarding its chatbots, is asking parents to trust its ability to safeguard vulnerable teens.
The family of a teen, Adam Lane, who tragically took his life in 2025 reportedly after interactions with ChatGPT, has also raised alarms. They claim the chatbot provided Adam with details on various methods of self-harm in a lawsuit against OpenAI.
Addressing the issue, Cochran called for stringent regulations, advocating that AI companies should ensure the safety of their products, particularly for children.
Amid growing public unease, Meetali Jain from Tech Justice Law pointed out that OpenAI’s announcement reflects pressure to enhance safety measures for young users. She emphasized the importance of transparency regarding how these safety measures will function, arguing that companies should undergo independent evaluations to verify their commitments to safety.
In legislative efforts, Republican Sen. John Curtis of Utah has proposed the “SAFE KIDS Act,’’ aimed at mandating parental controls and child safety measures in chatbot designs, as well as conducting independent audits. The bill also intends to prevent chatbots from misleading children into thinking they are chatting with real humans.
Responses from OpenAI, Character.AI, advocates, and legal representatives regarding these issues have not yet come through. Additionally, the Federal Trade Commission has chosen not to comment on the subject.
Child safety advocates recommend that parents approach ChatGPT’s Teen Mode with caution. Robbie Torney from Common Sense Media voiced concerns about the reliability of the new features, expressing the need for thorough evaluations before families can place their trust in them.
“History shows that parental controls can be ineffective if not properly understood or accepted,” Torney noted, highlighting the need for age-appropriate experiences for minors while acknowledging that there’s still much to learn about this new ChatGPT version for teens.
