Shared Learnings
| October 21, 2026
Connecting in the Age of AI: Nurturing Adolescent Relationships in a Digital World
The ages of 10 to 25 are a pivotal period for social learning through our relationships. We learn how to trust and support one another, as well as how to navigate emotions, like love and heartbreak — all of which can impact our future mental health.
As young people turn to AI companions, what does it mean for their development?
At Spring Point Partners’ September 2026 Learning Session, Thao Ha, Ph.D. shared the importance of forming healthy relationships during adolescence and how AI can be designed to support development during this crucial time of connection.
Relationships are learned skills. Adolescence is an important time for developing communication, trust, emotional awareness, and conflict-resolution skills that shape future relationships.
Technology influences how young people connect. Digital tools can strengthen relationships, but they can also introduce challenges related to boundaries, communication, and unhealthy relationship behaviors.
AI works best as a tool for connection, not a replacement for it. As AI becomes more present in young people’s lives, it should be used to support meaningful human interactions and relationship-building rather than substitute for them.
Missed the session? Watch it below or on YouTube. You can also download the presentation slides.
Thao Ha, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Psychology and founder of the Future of Love Initiative at Arizona State University. She studies how adolescents learn to build healthy relationships and how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, are changing relational learning, mental health, and human connection that profoundly shape their emotional and social development.
Through her @HEART Lab, she develops innovative methods to study adolescents’ real-world digital interactions and works with youth, educators, policymakers, artists, and technology leaders to design solutions that strengthen human relationships. Thao recently discussed AI and relationships on NPR’s Open to Debate.
