AI as the “Third Parent”: Rising Dependence on Digital Assistants Raises Concerns Among Experts

The growing presence of artificial intelligence in everyday life is reshaping how children learn, communicate, and seek guidance prompting concerns that AI tools may be evolving into a “third parent” within households. A recent discussion highlighted by The Times of India explores how conversational AI systems are influencing childhood development, raising questions about emotional dependency, misinformation risks, and the long-term social impact of delegating guidance traditionally provided by parents and educators to machines.

What the Decision Means-

The integration of AI into education and home environments offers undeniable benefits, including personalized learning, instant access to information, and language assistance. Many parents use AI-powered tools to help children with homework, creative tasks, or curiosity-driven questions. However, experts caution that reliance on AI for decision-making or emotional reassurance may alter how children develop critical thinking, resilience, and interpersonal skills.

One key concern is that AI systems can simulate empathy without genuinely understanding human emotion. If children increasingly confide in digital assistants rather than caregivers, it could weaken real-world communication habits. Additionally, algorithm-driven responses may inadvertently reinforce biases or provide inaccurate information if not carefully supervised.

For educators, the challenge lies in balancing AI-assisted learning with independent reasoning. Schools and families may need to establish clearer guidelines on when AI use is beneficial and when human interaction should take precedence.

The Legal/Political Angle-

The rapid adoption of AI among minors has drawn attention from policymakers worldwide. Governments are examining regulatory frameworks related to data privacy, child safety, and content moderation. Children interacting with AI systems often share personal information, raising concerns about data storage, consent, and long-term digital footprints.

Regulatory debates also focus on accountability. If an AI system provides harmful advice or inappropriate content, determining responsibility whether it lies with developers, platform providers, or guardians—remains complex. Policymakers are increasingly considering age-specific safeguards, transparency requirements, and parental control mechanisms to address these risks.

Impact on Bilateral/Global Relations-

AI governance is becoming a global policy priority, with countries collaborating on ethical standards and technological regulation. Concerns about children’s exposure to AI contribute to broader international discussions on responsible innovation, digital rights, and cross-border technology oversight.

Nations that lead in AI regulation and child safety frameworks may influence global standards, shaping how technology companies design products for younger users. As AI adoption expands globally, shared concerns about youth development and online safety could drive international cooperation in digital governance.

Market and Investor Reactions- The surge in AI adoption among families has created new market opportunities in educational technology, parental control software, and child-focused digital platforms. Companies are investing in AI tutors, learning companions, and interactive assistants designed specifically for younger audiences. However, reputational risks related to safety and ethical concerns may influence investor confidence, particularly if controversies emerge around misuse or harm.

Investors are also monitoring regulatory developments closely. Stricter compliance requirements could increase operational costs for technology firms but may also create competitive advantages for companies that prioritize safety and transparency.

The idea of AI becoming a “third parent” reflects both the promise and the anxiety surrounding emerging technologies. While AI tools can enhance learning and accessibility, excessive dependence may affect children’s emotional growth, independence, and social skills.

The path forward will likely involve balanced adoption, leveraging AI’s strengths while preserving the irreplaceable role of human relationships in child development. As technology continues to evolve, parents, educators, and policymakers will play a critical role in ensuring that AI remains a supportive tool rather than a substitute for human guidance.