Working with the American Psychological Association on youth mental health and AI

Young people already use AI to learn, create, ask questions, and seek advice. As that use grows, families, schools, clinicians, and communities need clearer evidence, better resources, and stronger safeguards. That’s why we’re working with the American Psychological Association (APA) to bring psychological science into how we think about responsible AI development and use among young people. APA is the leading scientific and professional organization for psychology in the United States, whose evidence-grounded work will help clarify what is known, what is uncertain, and what responsible AI should look like as the technology evolves.

“Technology is part of teens’ lives, and our responsibility is to meet that reality with experiences that are safe, age-appropriate, and designed with families in mind. AI should strengthen—not replace—the real-world relationships and care young people rely on,” said Dr. Sara Johansen, head of mental health and well-being product policy at OpenAI. “This work builds on our ongoing efforts with experts. By working with the APA and other leading experts, we’re continuing to ground our approach in evidence and develop practical safeguards that put teens’ well-being first.”

Areas of focus

Earlier this year, we co-hosted a productive convening with the APA that brought together leaders from mental health organizations, researchers, clinicians, educators, and youth representatives to discuss where young people face gaps in support today, and where AI may responsibly help people find information and connect to real-world support.