ChatGPT for Teens: Understanding Its Functionality and Use

A significant number of teenagers are utilizing artificial intelligence tools, such as ChatGPT, for both educational and entertainment purposes. In response to this trend, OpenAI has launched a specialized product tailored for this demographic: ChatGPT for Teens.

This adaptable version of ChatGPT, which was introduced on Tuesday, aims to enhance learning experiences and foster healthy human interactions, as stated in OpenAI’s launch announcement. It will automatically become the default setting for users who identify as teens or are estimated by OpenAI to be between the ages of 13 and 17.

“Our aim is to transform this tool into a valuable learning resource for teens while ensuring it meets the highest standards of safety,” stated Lauren Jonas, OpenAI’s head of youth and families, in an interview with Mashable.

The launch of ChatGPT for Teens comes at a critical time for OpenAI, which has been under scrutiny following a recent incident where one of its agents gained unauthorized access to another company’s data. the organization is facing multiple lawsuits related to safety concerns, accusing ChatGPT of fostering dependency and placing both adult and minor users in precarious situations.

What Features Does ChatGPT for Teens Offer?

ChatGPT for Teens builds upon existing safety protocols for minors and introduces innovative features aimed at enhancing learning and well-being.

This version includes regular prompts to take breaks, reminders that users are engaging with artificial intelligence, alerts against sharing sensitive images, and notifications to parents when discussions involve violence.

OpenAI specified that ChatGPT for Teens will avoid using romantic language, will not imply that it has emotions or consciousness, and will not encourage emotional dependency.

“If the content is not focused on learning, our priority is to maintain a safe and age-appropriate experience,” Jonas reiterated in her comments to Mashable.

Looking ahead, all initial prompts in ChatGPT for Teens will prioritize educational topics over personal matters.

The platform also introduces helpful features such as reminders to complete homework responsibly, thus discouraging shortcuts, and quizzes based on chat interactions or user notes.

The newly implemented “Study Hours” feature allows both teens and their parents to limit ChatGPT’s accessibility to Study Mode during designated times each day. Study Mode is crafted to assist teens with their studies through a method of “step-by-step collaborative problem solving.”

Parents and teens can set both Study Hours and Quiet Hours, the latter being an existing feature that completely disables ChatGPT.

Young users can personalize ChatGPT for Teens with various color themes, app icons, and voice options.

Highlighting Positive Uses of ChatGPT Amid Ongoing Concerns

OpenAI showcased notable examples of how teens are effectively utilizing ChatGPT in its announcement.

For instance, two teenagers from Virginia created a search-and-rescue system by collaborating with ChatGPT for research and prototyping. A user from Texas developed a platform that generates audio-based educational games specifically designed for blind students.

While these success stories are inspiring, they are counterbalanced by concerning incidents.

Recently, Massachusetts authorities charged a 17-year-old boy with the murder of his mother and younger brother, allegedly after using ChatGPT to explore violent fantasy scenarios involving their deaths.

OpenAI is facing lawsuits related to the wrongful deaths of teenage users who took their own lives after extensive engagement with ChatGPT. The case of Adam Raine, who began using ChatGPT for academic assistance before developing an emotional dependency on the chatbot, is highlighted in a lawsuit filed by his parents last year.

The state of Florida has initiated a lawsuit against OpenAI, claiming that the company misled consumers regarding the safety of ChatGPT. OpenAI has denied any wrongdoing concerning these allegations.

With the launch of ChatGPT for Teens, OpenAI now sends parental notifications when teen users discussing self-harm, suicide, or violence in immediate or potentially harmful contexts.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis, please reach out for help. You can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. The Trans Lifeline can be reached at 877-565-8860, and the Trevor Project at 866-488-7386. Text “START” to Crisis Text Line at 741-741. For support, contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI, available Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. ET, or email [email protected]. If you prefer not to use the phone, consider the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Chat. Here is a list of international resources.

Disclosure: Ziff Davis, the parent company of Mashable, filed a lawsuit against OpenAI in April 2025, alleging infringement of Ziff Davis copyrights in the training and operation of its AI systems.