AI Chatbots for Teen Emotional SupportCEFR A2
18 Oct 2025
Adapted from Hong Kong Free Press, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Russel Bailo, Unsplash
AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.
Teenagers in Hong Kong are using AI chatbots for emotional support. Jessica and Sarah are two girls who found comfort talking to these bots. They feel that the chatbots listen to them without judgment. This is important for teenagers who struggle with feelings of loneliness or sadness.
Chatbots like Xingye and Character.AI are popular because they provide quick responses. This can feel more personal than waiting for replies from friends. However, some experts warn that relying only on chatbots can be risky for mental health.
Difficult words
- support — help or encouragement during hard times.
- emotion — a strong feeling like happiness or sadness.emotional
- comfort — a feeling of ease or relief.
- struggle — to have difficulty with something.
- loneliness — the feeling of being alone or isolated.
- popular — well-liked or widely used by many people.
- risk — the chance of something bad happening.risky
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What are some benefits of talking to chatbots?
- In what ways could chatbots be risky for teenagers?
- How can friends offer support differently than chatbots?
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