OpenAI Statement on Teen ChatGPT Use and Safety Measures
OpenAI states that youth AI usage is under 15 minutes daily, while research reveals the platform poses risks due to gaps in parental notifications.
OpenAI has announced that the average daily usage time of ChatGPT by teenagers remains under 15 minutes, while independent research reveals that safety measures on the platform are inadequate and fail to alert parents, particularly regarding sensitive topics.
Teen usage times and breaks
In a statement released by OpenAI, it was stated that the average teen user spends less than 15 minutes a day on ChatGPT. It was emphasized that automatic break reminders are quite effective during longer sessions.
The company noted that nearly half of teenage users quickly stop using the app following such a reminder.
Long-term sessions and education-focused use
In cases where teenagers used ChatGPT continuously for three hours or more, it was determined that more than 80% of these sessions involved learning-related prompts.
Findings of the Common Sense Media research
A new study conducted by Common Sense Media revealed that the use of ChatGPT by teenagers poses an unacceptable risk for parents and youth.
As a result of the research, it was argued that OpenAI should ban users under the age of 18 from using the platform until the reliability of its safety measures is proven.
OpenAI's objection to the research methodology
An OpenAI spokesperson stated that Common Sense Media's methodology was reviewed and that the majority of tests may have been conducted before parental controls were fully activated.
The company argued that while they welcome independent evaluations, current tests do not accurately reflect the system's real-world operation.
Shortcomings in safety measures
While research shows that the platform is successful in protecting teenagers from topics like sexually explicit roleplay, it revealed shortcomings on sensitive issues such as suicide and self-harm.
It was determined that zero alerts were sent to parents despite lengthy conversations on suicidal ideation and eating disorders on newly opened and parent-linked accounts.