Children Turn to AI With Personal Secrets, Finnish Survey Finds

A Finnish survey has revealed a shift in how children interact with artificial intelligence, with its role extending beyond homework help and information searches into personal conversations.

Children are also using AI to share secrets they do not want to disclose to others, according to the findings. That suggests these tools are becoming more than a practical resource for some young users.

The shift raises a question about AI’s place in children’s social lives: is it simply another space to express themselves, or could it begin to take the place of conversations with friends?

The summary of the survey does not establish that children are replacing friendships with AI. It does, however, point to a growing overlap between digital assistance and the kinds of private exchanges usually associated with trusted people.

That distinction matters as AI becomes a potential confidant. Understanding why children choose to disclose personal matters to a chatbot—and what they expect in return—is central to assessing its role in their lives.