OpenAI Interest Groups

AI in Science

The Scripps Research Institute

PhD student @ The Scripps Research Institute

Parenting teens and tweens is tough—there’s no sugarcoating it. Between sudden emotional changes, body changes, school stress, emotional ups and downs, and the never-ending battle over screen time, we’re all always asking ourselves what are the best ways to connect and support our teens The search for answers and guidance can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when it's unclear which advice best aligns with your parenting style and, most importantly, what is best for your teenager. As a result, we may feel frustrated by the lack of progress (on our terms), while our teens experience a sense of misunderstanding and what feels like a growing unwillingness to cooperate.

After years of research in the field, I came to realize that the very technology we so passionately fight against might become our ally. 

Today, more than ever, AI can be a partner in helping us navigate uncertainty while guiding our teens through the transition from childhood to young adulthood. Here I introduce my thoughts on some proven technologies. 

A recent study* on the effectiveness of AI-based chatbots that was designed to coach parents on using positive attention and praise to encourage good behavior shows interesting results. Parents loved the quick, interactive lessons. While a single session didn’t completely transform parenting skills overnight (because, let’s be real, what does?), it did help parents engage and learn practical strategies. The takeaway? AI might be a handy sidekick in the ever-complicated world of parenting.

What About Supporting Our Teens’ Mental Health?


Another study explored an AI chatbot named Tess**, designed to support college students struggling with anxiety and depression. The results were eye-opening—students who used Tess saw a noticeable drop in anxiety. Depression? Not so much. While the chatbot provided a helpful, judgment-free space to vent and get advice, it wasn’t a magic fix. But here’s the good news: AI tools like AI chatbots could be an extra layer of support for teens, alongside real-life conversations and professional help when needed.

Multiple studies show the effectiveness of peer support groups to navigate uncertainty and help parents alleviate some of the emotional tension while also getting some critical insight and advice from other parents and caregivers that experienced similar situations. The challenge remains how can we leverage that synergy while ensuring accurate support for those that need it most.

 to moderate a peer support group finding extremely positive results in AI interventions in discussions around parenting techniques as well as identifying critical red flags

So, Should Parents Jump on the AI Bandwagon?


AI isn’t going to replace heart-to-heart talks, family dinners, or the deep bond we build with our kids. But it 

 offer quick, helpful guidance when we feel stuck. Whether it’s learning a new way to handle tantrums (yes, teens still have them!) or giving our kids another way to manage stress, AI could be one more tool in our parenting toolkit.

Parenting teens isn’t easy, and sometimes, a quick Google search or expert article just doesn’t cut it. While professional advice is valuable, 

real-life parenting happens in the messy, 

unpredictable moments that experts don’t always cover. That’s where peer-to-peer communities come in. Unlike traditional advice, peer-to-peer parenting groups offer 

—from parents who are in the trenches just like you. These spaces provide 

judgment-free support, fresh perspectives, and practical solutions

 that actually work in real life. Whether you need advice on setting boundaries, handling tough conversations, or just reassurance that you’re not alone, these communities are a powerful way to get guidance that feels real and relatable.

*AI-based chatbot micro-intervention for parents: Meaningful engagement, learning, and efficacy https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36741110/

Artificial Intelligence–Based Chatbot for Anxiety and Depression in University Students: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Can AI Help Us Be Better Parents?

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