OpenAI rolled out ChatGPT for Teens in August, a version that activates automatically for users under 18. The mode includes parental controls and limits conversations on sensitive topics. According to OpenAI, teens use ChatGPT for under 15 minutes daily on average, and less than 2 per cent chat for over three hours straight.
However, a report by non-profit Common Sense Media found that ChatGPT for Teens often failed to alert parents promptly when teens discussed suicide, self-harm or eating disorders. The chatbot also did not reliably suggest crisis support. OpenAI attributed the delays to security and technical scaling issues, saying parent and teen accounts may take hours to fully link and activate safety alerts.
Why it matters
- Secondary and university students increasingly use AI tools for schoolwork, requiring parental awareness of safety features.
- Parental controls exist but may not work immediately, so families should understand their limitations when monitoring teen use.
- Schools across Singapore and Hong Kong should help students use AI for learning while understanding built-in safeguards remain imperfect.
What to do
- Enable parental controls on ChatGPT for Teens and allow time for accounts to fully link before relying on alerts.
- Discuss openly with your teen how they use ChatGPT, focusing on learning goals rather than restricting access entirely.
- Combine AI use with other study methods; use ChatGPT's study features like flashcards and visualizations alongside traditional learning.