Working with the American Psychological Association on youth mental health and AI

OpenAI announced a partnership with the American Psychological Association on Thursday to bring psychological science into responsible AI development and use among young people. The collaboration aims to develop evidence-based resources and safeguards for families, schools, clinicians, and communities as youth engagement with AI grows. APA Chief Executive Officer Arthur C. Evans Jr. said young people are engaging with AI during consequential developmental years and that the organization brings developmental science and clinical expertise to define responsible design. Dr. Sara Johansen, head of mental health and well-being product policy at OpenAI, said AI should strengthen real-world relationships and care that young people rely on. The work builds on a convening earlier this year with mental health leaders, researchers, clinicians, educators, and youth representatives. Planned focus areas include supporting young people in moments of distress, designing developmentally appropriate AI, and equipping parents, caregivers, and clinicians with practical guidance. OpenAI said the effort will be grounded in behavioral science and the lived experiences of youth and those who support them. The partnership extends OpenAI's existing safety work, which includes collaboration with more than 260 mental health experts to improve ChatGPT responses in sensitive moments. The company has also added crisis resources, parental controls, and age-appropriate safeguards for younger users.