A new survey conducted by Google and the Centre for Evidence and Implementation (CEI) reveals that AI tools are becoming an integral part of teenagers’ lives in Singapore. With 80% of teenagers reportedly using Generative AI at least once a week, parents are witnessing its influence across multiple areas of life, from academics to daily activities and entertainment.
The survey highlights that 68% of teenagers use Generative AI for schoolwork, such as researching information or simplifying complex topics. Another 45% use it for everyday tasks like planning activities, while 41% rely on it for leisure activities like creating content or learning new skills.
Parents themselves are becoming involved in their teenagers’ AI usage. Sixty-three percent of parents use Generative AI alongside their teens, especially for school-related activities, and 61% are discussing AI’s capabilities with their children. However, a critical issue is emerging: only 47% of parents have spoken to their teens about AI’s potential risks, leaving many young users unprepared to deal with challenges.
Concerns over AI-related risks
While parents are optimistic about AI’s potential benefits, they are equally concerned about its risks. Many fear their teenagers could become overly dependent on AI, believe false or AI-generated information, or fall victim to photo manipulation and synthetic media.
The survey reveals worrying gaps in awareness:
- Two in five parents say their teenager does not realise that Generative AI can produce inaccurate information.
- One in four parents report that their teenager does not verify information sourced from AI tools for school assignments.
- One in six parents are aware that their teenager has altered someone else’s photo or video using Generative AI.
Despite these concerns, many parents assume schools are addressing the topic or believe their children already understand the risks. This assumption may hinder efforts to ensure proper guidance.
Norman Ng, Head of Trust & Safety Global Engagements (APAC), Google Singapore, stressed the importance of conversations at home. “While AI has undoubtedly brought a lot of benefits, conversations about its potential risks are an important counterweight to ensure that teenagers can navigate its use in a productive way. With homes being a safe space for many teenagers to explore and use AI, parents shouldn’t underestimate the role they can play in shaping their child’s experience. These findings underscore the need for parents and children to engage in open and honest conversations about AI while tapping on available tools and resources to use AI effectively and responsibly.”
Dr Jean Liu, Director of the Centre for Evidence and Implementation, echoed the sentiment. “The AI landscape is changing rapidly, and our survey highlights how teens are at the centre of this action. They are already using AI tools on a regular basis. We need all hands on deck to guide our teenagers in this landscape, to ensure they reap the opportunities of technology while staying safe online. Parents, educators, and app developers all have a part to play.”
Tools and resources to help families
As AI technology evolves, parents recognise the importance of educating their teens and leveraging tools to create a safer online experience. Fifty-five percent of parents believe that teen education is crucial in addressing AI risks. They also value verification tools (50%), more accessible information on Generative AI (48%), content labels (45%), and age-appropriate settings (30%).
Several tools are available to help families manage AI use:
- Family Link and SafeSearch: Parents can apply content restrictions on Google Play and Search using Family Link, while SafeSearch helps filter inappropriate content for users under 18.
- Verification tools: Gemini’s ‘Double-check response’ feature allows users to verify information against Google Search. ‘About This Image’ provides background information on online images, and YouTube Safety labels improve transparency when synthetic media is used.
- Educational courses: AI Essentials on Coursera offers lessons on creating effective AI prompts, responsible AI use, and choosing the right AI tools for tasks.
These measures can help parents guide their teenagers towards responsible AI usage while minimising risks. As AI becomes more ingrained in everyday life, parents, educators, and tech developers must work together to ensure that its benefits are maximised while its challenges are properly addressed.
