OpenAI has announced a new set of restrictions on ChatGPT usage for individuals under 18, aimed at enhancing child safety and parental oversight. The update comes in response to rising concerns over how artificial intelligence interacts with younger audiences, particularly on sensitive topics.

Under these changes, ChatGPT will adopt a more cautious approach in conversations with teenagers by restricting discussions on suicide, self-harm, and sexually explicit content. The system will also refuse to engage in romantic or flirty exchanges with minors.

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Parental Control Features
To strengthen monitoring, OpenAI has rolled out parental control tools that allow parents to:

• Set blackout hours to limit children’s ChatGPT access.

• Link their own accounts with their child’s for better visibility.

• Receive alerts if the AI detects signs of severe emotional distress.

According to CEO Sam Altman, the company’s guiding principle is to prioritize safety over freedom or privacy when it comes to protecting minors.

The policy revision follows growing legal and public pressure. Lawmakers, parents, and advocacy groups have expressed mounting concern about the potential impact of AI on teenage mental health. A recent high-profile lawsuit in the U.S. has further intensified demands for stronger protective measures.