OpenAI announced Tuesday that it is rolling out a teen‑focused version of its ChatGPT chatbot for users between 13 and 17 years old. The company says the new service adds stronger safeguards around topics such as suicide, self‑harm, and romantic or sexual conversations, while still offering assistance with schoolwork.
Age‑appropriate design and parental controls
According to Ann O’Leary, OpenAI’s vice president of global policy, the goal is to treat teenagers with the respect due to their developmental stage without exposing them to material they should not see. The teen model blocks any suggestion that it has personal feelings, consciousness, or emotions, and it prevents romantic or sexual dialogue.
OpenAI does not verify ages directly but uses an “age assurance” system that estimates a user’s age based on query patterns. When a user is identified—or self‑identifies—as a minor, the system automatically switches them to the teen version. Parents can opt in to additional controls, including “quiet hours” that limit access and safety notifications for high‑risk situations such as potential self‑injury.
Guided learning, not answer‑spitting
The teen chatbot is designed to help students learn rather than simply provide ready‑made answers. OpenAI says the model will prompt users to think through problems and arrive at their own solutions, aligning with research that shows active engagement improves retention.
OpenAI already offers a version of ChatGPT for teachers, and the teen edition expands the company’s educational outreach. Allison Mishkin, head of child development at OpenAI, noted that the company continues to invest in interactive learning tools because “people learn more effectively when they actively engage and struggle with concepts.”
Why the new version matters
Concerns about AI chatbots have grown among parents, educators, and child‑development experts. Critics argue that unrestricted chatbots can facilitate cheating, encourage unhealthy emotional attachments, and even provide instructions for risky behavior. A 2025 study by Common Sense Media found that more than 70% of teens use AI chatbots for companionship, with half using them regularly.
OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman has described “emotional overreliance” on AI as a common issue among young people and said the teen version is an effort to study and mitigate that risk.
What’s next?
OpenAI plans to monitor usage data and refine the teen model over time. The company says it will continue to add safety notifications related to eating disorders and other high‑risk topics while limiting the amount of personal information shared with users. Schools and families interested in the service can learn more on OpenAI’s website.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
