When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This doesn’t affect our editorial independence.
OpenAI has introduced new features that enable ChatGPT users to adjust the Chatbot’s enthusiasm, agreeableness and use of emojis in its generated responses to protect teen users.
Earlier this year, OpenAI rolled back a new update to ChatGPT following user complaints that its replies were excessively flattering and too accommodating.
According to OpenAI, the Personalisation menu of the ChatGPT app allows these levels to be adjusted to “More,” “Less,” or “Default.” Also, users can tailor the fundamental style and tone of ChatGPT’s replies by selecting options such as Professional, Candid, or Quirky.
ChatGPT’s agreeableness and enthusiasm has recently become a cause of concern. Its overly agreeable replies have alarmed various critics. They argue that its chatbots are inclined to gratify users and validate their opinions. Ultimately, this fosters addictive behaviour and possibly adversely affect the mental well-being of users, especially teens.
Earlier this year, OpenAI rolled back an update that made GPT-5 friendlier and more agreeable. However, users expressed frustration with the updated model, describing it as colder and less agreeable.
Check Out Other Posts on this Site
OpenAI to launch Adult Mode in 2026
Amazon AI Shopping Tools Expanded with New Feature for Personalized Searches
OpenAI Faces Litany of Lawsuits Related to Teen Suicide
OpenAI is currently dealing with multiple lawsuits claiming that teenage users reportedly took their own lives following extended interactions with AI chatbots. Also, it has faced heightened examination from lawmakers, activists, and advocates for child safety.
Last week, Microsoft backed OpenAI, revised its user policy detailing the rules for interactions between its AI models and users under 18. Also, it released new AI literacy materials for teenagers and parents.
Image source: www.southstatebank.com
It noted the following principles to direct the models’ strategy for maintaining the safety of teen users:
- Prioritise teen safety above all else, even when conflicting with user interests such as “maximum intellectual freedom.”
- Encourage practical support by directing adolescents to relatives, friends, and local experts for their well-being.
- Interact with teenagers with kindness and respect, avoiding condescension treatment.
- Ensure clarity by detailing the model’s capabilities and limitations, and remind adolescents that it is not a person.
OpenAI Intensifies Efforts to Protect Teens and Adolescents
OpenAI said it uses advanced automated systems to evaluate text, image, and audio content instantaneously. These systems aim to identify and prevent content associated with child sexual abuse material, filter sensitive subjects, and identify self-harm.
If a prompt is marked by the system as a significant safety issue, the flagged material undergoes a manual assessment. The assessment is carried out by a small group of highly trained agents who evaluate whether the content indicates “acute distress”. It may inform the parents of the user who is under 18.
In a related development, OpenAI announced last week that it plans to roll out Adult Mode in 2026, to ease existing restrictions and allow mature content for verified adult users.
