New OpenAI model spec puts teen protection ahead of helpfulness: All you need to know
Posted on: Dec 20, 2025 11:40 IST | Posted by: Livemint
OpenAI on th proclaimed changes to its sit Spec, the intragroup rulebook that guides how its unreal intelligence systems behave, with a new and explicit focus on protecting teenagers who use ChatGPT.
The San Francisco-based company said the updated guidelines put the safety of users aged 13 to 17 above all other objectives, including the long-standing goal of maximising helpfulness and user freedom. The move comes amid growing scrutiny of how generative AI tools affect younger users.
Teen safety placed above all other goals
In a blog post released on Thursday, OpenAI said teenagers have different developmental needs compared to adults and that AI systems must respond to them in a more cautious and age-appropriate manner.
While the broader principles of the Model Spec continue to apply to everyone, the company said the update clarifies how those principles should be interpreted when minors are involved, especially in sensitive or high-risk conversations.
Under the revised rules, ChatGPT will prioritise teen safety even if it conflicts with other objectives set out in the document. This represents a notable shift, as safety for minors now overrides the platform’s usual emphasis on openness and flexibility.
New rules for interacting with younger users
OpenAI outlined four specific principles that will guide how ChatGPT interacts with teenagers.
The chatbot will be required to encourage real-world support, including trusted adults and offline relationships, rather than positioning itself as a substitute. It must also treat teenagers as teenagers, avoiding both condescension and the assumption that they can be handled like adults.
The company also stressed transparency, saying ChatGPT should clearly set expectations about what it can and cannot do in teen-focused conversations. In addition, the system will be less prone to flattery or excessive agreement, as OpenAI confirmed that its so-called sycophancy metric will be lowered for users in this age group.
Age detection tools still being rolled out
OpenAI also revealed that its age prediction model is in the early stages of deployment. This system analyses subtle cues in conversations to estimate whether a user may be under 18, even if they have not disclosed their age.
According to the company, the model will gradually be rolled out to ChatGPT users across different consumer plans in the near future.
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.