How do young people feel about AI? 7 teens weigh in

Published: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at 8:00 pm

The rapid integration of generative artificial intelligence into daily life has ignited widespread discussion among adults regarding its appropriate uses. However, the experience of navigating education and adolescence in this evolving technological landscape remains a critical question. To explore this, seven teenagers shared their perspectives on AI.

For some, like 15-year-old Charles Ansevin, AI tools are viewed as beneficial companions. He describes engaging in "very meaningful, you know, intelligent discussions" with AI. Similarly, 18-year-old Tessa Klein, a recent high school graduate, finds AI to be a valuable resource, offering feedback on essays and clarifying difficult science topics. She likens it to having an accessible private tutor, a resource not always available or affordable to all students.

Conversely, other young individuals express significant reservations. Sixteen-year-old Dorian Prado voices strong opposition to AI, arguing that it diminishes the necessity of critical thinking. He believes that making thinking "optional" is detrimental to learning, stating, "You don't think, you don't learn. It's making us dumber."

Beyond academic concerns, the potential economic impact of AI is also a significant worry. 18-year-old Dammie'on McColley views AI as a more profound and concerning development than a simple academic aid. His primary apprehension lies in the potential for AI to displace jobs, impacting individuals' livelihoods and their ability to support their families. He questions the future for those whose income sources are taken over by automated systems.

Other teenagers who contributed to this discussion include Ethan Ansevin, Rida Desai, and Natalie Vadakkan. Their insights, alongside those of Charles Ansevin, Dorian Prado, Tessa Klein, and Dammie'on McColley, offer a multifaceted view of how young people are perceiving and interacting with artificial intelligence as they grow and learn.

BNN's Perspective: The varied responses from these teenagers highlight the complex and often contradictory feelings surrounding AI. While some embrace its potential as a learning tool and intellectual partner, others fear its capacity to erode essential cognitive skills and disrupt economic stability. This divergence underscores the need for ongoing dialogue and careful consideration as AI continues to shape our society, particularly for the generation that will most fully inherit its consequences.

Tags: AI, artificial intelligence, generative AI, teenagers, teens, education, learning, critical thinking, jobs, economy, technology, ChatGPT

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