How Chatbot Design Shapes a Child’s Experience
Select a scenario below to compare two intentionally different chatbot styles: one that is emotionally relational and highly validating, and one that is transparent, bounded, and explicit about being non-human.
Conversation 1: Personified Style
Uses first-person language, emotional validation, personalized praise, and companionship cues.
Design signals
- Uses “I” and “me”
- Highly validating and affirming
- Companionship framing
- Risk of emotional overreliance
Conversation 2: Non-Personified Style
Discloses it is non-human, avoids first-person pronouns, avoids flattery, and redirects to trusted people when appropriate.
Design signals
- Clear non-human disclosure
- No first-person pronouns
- No emotional dependence cues
- Encourages trusted adult support