(#10) Parent Use of Artificial Intelligence for Child Mental Health Concerns: Implications for Clinical Practice and Clinician Education

Abstract: Parents are increasingly navigating child and adolescent mental health concerns in a digital information environment. Recent literature suggests that parents frequently turn to internet and social media sources for child health and parenting information, and emerging evidence indicates that artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an important part of how patients, caregivers, and the public seek and interpret health information. However, the use of conversational AI in pediatric mental health remains an emerging area, and empirical research on how parents use AI in relation to their child's mental health concerns is limited.


This research-in-progress examines whether, how, and for what purposes parents or legal guardians of children and adolescents with emotional, behavioral, or mental health concerns use AI when seeking information or guidance related to their child's mental health. The study is being developed as a cross-sectional, anonymous online survey of adult parents or legal guardians. The survey will assess patterns of AI use; the types of concerns that prompt use; perceived helpfulness, accuracy, and trustworthiness of AI-generated information; concerns about potential risks or limitations; and perceived influence on care-seeking and decision-making.


This poster will present the rationale for the study, the proposed survey design, key domains of interest, and the anticipated relevance of the project to child and adolescent mental health care. Findings may inform clinician communication, anticipatory guidance for families, and clinician education related to parent use of AI in child mental health contexts.

Short Description: This research-in-progress poster describes a planned anonymous survey investigating whether, how, and for what purposes parents use artificial intelligence (AI) when seeking information or support for child mental health concerns. The study will examine patterns of use; perceived helpfulness, accuracy, and trustworthiness; perceived limitations and risks of AI-generated information; and the potential influence of AI use on care-seeking, clinician-family communication, clinical practice, and clinician education.

Name of Sponsoring Organization(s): N/A