Artificial intelligence isn’t just helping students with homework anymore — it’s becoming part of their emotional lives.
According to new research from the Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT), one in five high school students say they or someone they know has had a romantic relationship with an AI system. Another 42% say they’ve used AI for companionship, turning to chatbots for comfort, conversation, and affirmation.
What began as a classroom tool for learning and feedback is now evolving into something more personal. “The more ways that a student reports their school uses AI, the more likely they are to say they know someone who considers AI a friend — or even a romantic partner,” said Elizabeth Laird of the CDT in an interview with NPR.
But this growing emotional connection comes with serious concerns. The CDT survey — which included more than 2,800 teachers, students, and parents — found that schools with heavy AI integration were far more likely to experience data breaches, AI-related bullying, and exposure to deepfakes or explicit content. In schools that rely heavily on AI systems, 28% reported data breaches compared to 18% in schools with limited AI use.
Many students also said they used school-issued devices to talk with AI systems about personal issues, not realizing their activity could be monitored. “This technology is becoming a new channel for harassment and bullying,” Laird warned. “It’s a new way to amplify those harms.”
Despite the risks, only 11% of teachers say they’ve received any training on how to handle unhealthy or inappropriate AI use among students. Some educators appreciate AI for its efficiency and personalization, but others worry it’s widening the emotional distance between students and teachers.
As AI continues to shape both learning and relationships, experts say schools must find a balance between technological innovation and human connection. “If we’re going to realize the benefits of AI,” Laird said, “we have to listen to what students are telling us — and protect them along the way.”