In this episode we explore how young people are using AI when adults are not watching — not just for homework help, but for emotional support, relationship advice, and navigating moments of loneliness, conflict, or uncertainty.

We look at new research from The Rithm Project on youth, AI, and relationships, and ask what educators should understand before students return to school in the fall.

Topics covered:

• How students are using AI during unstructured time outside of school
• Why AI use among young people is not just an academic integrity issue
• Findings from The Rithm Project’s report, Youth, AI, and the Relationships That Shape Them
• Why some students turn to AI because they feel like a burden to others
• The difference between AI “companions” and everyday emotional support use
• How AI may help students avoid the friction of real relationships
• Why productive struggle matters in both learning and human connection
• What teachers might ask students when they return in September

Sources:

https://www.therithmproject.org/research

https://www.the74million.org/article/survey-young-people-turn-to-ai-to-be-their-real-unfiltered-selves/