Hong Kong teens use AI chatbots for comfortCEFR B1
18 Oct 2025
Adapted from Hong Kong Free Press, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Russel Bailo, Unsplash
Hong Kong Free Press reported on October 12, 2025 that some teenagers are turning to AI chatbots for emotional support. The report interviews users, app developers and scientists to explain why chatbots are part of adolescent life in the city. Jessica, 13, began using the Chinese role‑playing chatbot Xingye after she was bullied and now chats for three to four hours most days. Sarah, 16, used the American app Character.AI from about age 13 for a year and a half, but she later stopped when school became busy and responses felt repetitive.
Experts say companion apps can give quick comfort but also carry risks. Neuroscientist Benjamin Becker warned that chatbots often “tell you what you want to hear,” which can create an echo chamber, and the report mentions cases called “AI psychosis.” There are also safety and privacy concerns: role‑playing chatbots keep users engaged and collect data, and Character.AI faces multiple lawsuits in the US filed by parents who allege their children died by or attempted suicide after interacting with its chatbots.
Some developers aim for safer tools. Dustykid, a Chinese‑language chatbot for students, was tested in multiple schools and organisations and is set to launch in October. Social workers and experts stress that human support remains important for adolescent mental health.
Difficult words
- chatbot — A computer program that talks to people.chatbots
- support — Help or encouragement in difficult times.supportive
- interaction — Talking or communicating with others.interactions
- loneliness — Feeling sad because you are alone.
- comfort — A feeling of relief from worry or pain.
- emotional — Related to feelings and emotions.
- importance — The quality of being significant or valuable.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What are some positive aspects of using chatbots for support?
- How can technology help us connect with others?
- In what situations might someone prefer a chatbot over friends?
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