Risks Posed by Generative AI Models to Mental Health and Safety of Children and Youths
Ministry of Digital Development and InformationSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the risks posed by generative AI models to the mental health and safety of youth, as raised by Miss Rachel Ong. Minister for Digital Development and Information Mrs Josephine Teo stated that agencies are assessing these impacts while enforcing age assurance measures for designated app stores by March 2026. She highlighted that the Model AI Governance Framework for Generative AI promotes responsible use alongside cyber wellness education within the national school curriculum. Furthermore, the Infocomm Media Development Authority has incorporated generative AI risk management into its digital literacy frameworks. Finally, the government provides resources like the Positive Use Guide on Technology and Social Media to support families in managing their digital interactions safely.
Transcript
52 Miss Rachel Ong asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) whether the Ministry has assessed the risks posed by generative AI models to mental health and safety of children and youths in Singapore; and (b) what safeguarding measures, for example, mandatory crisis-intervention protocols, age verification, parental controls, are being considered or implemented to protect youths from harmful AI interactions.
Mrs Josephine Teo: Agencies across Government are assessing the prevalence and impact of generative artificial intelligence (gen AI) on our children and youths. Meanwhile, there are already some measures in place to protect younger users online. Under our Codes of Practice for Online Safety, designated app stores must implement age assurance measures by 31 March 2026 to reduce the risk of under-18 users being able to access and download age-inappropriate apps. Existing frameworks, such as the Model AI Governance Framework for Generative AI, which fosters responsible development and use of AI, apply to online safety for youths and children.
The Government complements regulations with education and resources to equip young users and parents to use technology, including gen AI, safely and responsibly. In schools, Cyber Wellness and Mental Health Education lessons are taught as part of the Ministry of Education's (MOE's) Character and Citizenship Education (CCE) curriculum. Through the lessons, students learn to be safe, respectful and responsible online users, and to take care of their mental well-being. The Infocomm Media Development Authority's Digital Skills for Life framework now includes content on how to use gen AI and manage its potential risks. In addition, parents, children and youths may refer to the recently released Positive Use Guide on Technology and Social Media for practical tips on building healthy and balanced relationships with technology.
We will continue to work with stakeholders to create safer online spaces, so that every Singaporean is empowered to thrive safely in the digital age.