Your Child’s New Best Friend? A Bot!

Listen to this episode from The Dr. Phil Podcast on Spotify. AI chatbots are reshaping how kids bond, love, and trust. Dr. Phil investigates Big Tech’s impact on real connection with experts Kristina Lerman and Minh Duc Chu. AI companions aren’t science fiction anymore they are in our kids’ pockets. In this alarming episode, Dr. Phil sits down with the Co-Authors of “Artificial Intimacy: The Next Giant Social Experiment on Young Minds” Kristina Lerman (Professor, Luddy School of Informatics, Indiana University Bloomington a fellow of the AAAI) and Minh Duc Chu (David)(Ph.D. Candidate, USC Information Sciences Institute) to uncover the shocking findings behind their viral study. From 30,000+ real chatbot conversations to the psychological impact on kids, we dive into: How bots mirror emotions and create deep attachments Why some children now trust AI chatbot more than parents The risks of emotional outsourcing in childhood Who protects our kids If your child has ever said, “My AI chatbot understands me better than you,” this episode is a wake-up call. Find out more: Artificial Intimacy Article: https://www.afterbabel.com/p/artificial-intimacy Kristina Lerman's Research: https://bit.ly/47N1k2E  Minh Duc Chu's Research: https://bit.ly/41oUjkK  This episode is brought to you by Beam: Visit https://shopbeam.com/DRPHIL  and use code DRPHIL to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. This episode is brought to you by Greenlight: Raise financially smart kids. Start your risk-free trial today! visit https://Greenlight.com/phil This episode is brought to you by Hydeline offers customizable leather options, so you can pick the color that fits your style. They've got specialized hybrid foam and pocketed coil cushion systems to help you sit comfortably for hours, whether you're watching my show, reading a book, or just… thinking about your life choices. For a limited time you can get 10% off storewide AND free shipping with code 'DRPHIL10' at https://hydeline.com      Subscribe | Rate | Share:  YouTube: https://bit.ly/3H3lJ8n/ Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3W76ihW/ Spotify: https://spoti.fi/44IhdWV/ Website: https://www.drphilpodcasts.com   #DrPhil #DrPhilPodcast #ChatBots #ArtificialIntimacy  #ParentingInTheAIera  #DigitalWellness  #AICompanions #YouthMentalHealth