The Dark Side Of AI In Youth Ministry

Hey, it’s Brady,

Teenagers are increasingly turning to AI chatbots for connection and questions.

Maybe you've seen this dark side of youth ministry. Maybe you haven't.

But my belief is this…

The threat this poses to the formation of young people, is considerably greater than what my generation (Millennials) had with social media.

It tends to start with schoolwork. But quickly, delegation becomes dependency.

For example, when MIT researchers forced ChatGPT users to write without AI, they performed worse than people who never used AI at all.

This is cognitive atrophy.

Happening during the period when a young person’s brain isn’t even fully developed.

Then, it evolves into something even more sinister.

Instead of asking the chatbot to organize an essay, a teenager might ask:

“I got into a fight with one of my friends - is there something wrong with me?”

Now, the chatbot is being elevated into the position of mentor, therapist, friend - ultimately, a god.

The solution? Here’s what Dr. John Delony says:

“Start calling your kids. Meet them in person. Tell them you’re proud of them to their face. Hug them. Visit them. Show them you love them. Say what you need to say in person. It’s the only way forward.”

Before You Embrace AI In Church Tech, Read This

The future of creativity is shifting fast.

And for the first time, humans aren’t the only ones leading the way.

New studies from Stanford and MIT reveal how AI is already transforming creative work.

…and it’s not pretty.

Get the answers here.

Thanks as always for your time, attention, and trust. - Brady Shearer