AI Tools for Emotional Support: An Initial Survey of Age-Related Differences in Perceptions and Use

Abstract

This study examined age-related differences in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for emotional support using survey data from 3,597 respondents recruited through Mental Health America. Chi-square analyses showed that adoption and frequency of AI-based emotional support varied significantly by age, with adolescents under 18 reporting the highest use and adults aged 25 and older reporting lower-than-expected use. Common motivations among users included convenience, 24/7 availability, comfort talking to a bot, free access, and the ability to seek help without informing family members. Non-users most often cited a preference for human support, distrust of AI advice, and privacy concerns. Findings suggest that AI’s non-human nature can both reduce stigma and increase concerns about trust and authenticity. Human-centered systems should therefore provide age-appropriate safety guardrails, transparent limitations, privacy protections, and clear pathways to human support.