A new study shows a worrying trend among US teens. Many teens are using artificial intelligence (AI) tools. They use them to make sexual images. This raises fears about privacy and digital harm.
The study was published in 'PLOS ONE'. Chad Steele from George Mason University led the research. They surveyed 557 teens. The teens were aged 13 to 17. Parents gave permission for the study.
Worrying Numbers
Results show 55.3% of teens used AI tools. They made nude images of themselves or others. Also, 54.4% said they got such images. This is a big concern.
More worrying, 36.3% of teens had altered images made. This happened without their okay. Another 33.2% said these images were shared without permission. This shows a lack of control.
The study also found boys were more involved. They made and shared these images more often. This happened with or without consent.
New Privacy Threat
Sharing private pictures is not new. But AI tools make it more dangerous. Now, you don't need a person's consent. Just having a normal photo is enough. It can be turned into fake content.
Experts warn this harm can deeply affect victims. It is like digital abuse. Victims may feel they lost control. They can suffer long-term emotional pain.
Calls for Action
The researcher thinks teens are more than digital citizens. They are now 'AI citizens'. These tools replace old behaviors like sharing photos. But AI adds bigger problems. These involve consent and privacy.
The study hopes results will push leaders. Schools and decision-makers can act fast. They need to stop this trend. It could become more complex and dangerous later.