Parents sue OpenAI after Teen’s suicide, allege ChatGPT encouraged self-harm
PTC Web Desk: The parents of a 16-year-old boy who died by suicide have filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman, accusing the company of prioritising profit over user safety when it launched its GPT-4o chatbot last year.
According to the complaint filed in San Francisco state court on Tuesday, Adam Raine engaged in conversations with ChatGPT for several months before his death on April 11, 2024. His parents, Matthew and Maria Raine, allege that the AI chatbot not only validated their son’s suicidal thoughts but also provided him with detailed instructions on lethal self-harm methods. The suit further claims the chatbot guided Adam on how to steal alcohol from his parents’ liquor cabinet, conceal a failed attempt, and even offered to compose a suicide note.
The lawsuit seeks damages for wrongful death and violations of product safety laws, asserting that OpenAI knowingly launched GPT-4o despite being aware of the risks posed to vulnerable users.
An OpenAI spokesperson expressed condolences, saying the company was “saddened” by the incident. The spokesperson explained that ChatGPT is equipped with safeguards such as referrals to suicide prevention hotlines, but admitted these protections “work best in shorter conversations” and may become less effective in prolonged exchanges. OpenAI did not comment directly on the lawsuit’s specific allegations.
Experts have long cautioned that AI chatbots, which are increasingly promoted as companions and sources of emotional support, carry significant risks when relied upon for mental health advice. Families who have lost loved ones after AI interactions have criticised companies for inadequate safety measures.
In a recent blog post, OpenAI revealed plans to roll out parental controls and explore new methods to connect at-risk users with real-world help. This includes the possibility of building a network of licensed professionals who could respond directly through ChatGPT.
The lawsuit highlights that OpenAI introduced GPT-4o in May 2024 with advanced memory features, human-like empathy, and a validation style that the Raines argue made the product particularly dangerous for vulnerable individuals. Despite these risks, they allege, the company proceeded with the release to accelerate its market valuation, which soared from $86 billion to $300 billion shortly after launch.
“This decision had two results: OpenAI’s valuation skyrocketed, and Adam Raine lost his life,” the lawsuit states.
The Raines are also pushing for a court order requiring OpenAI to implement stricter safeguards, including mandatory age verification, automatic blocking of self-harm-related inquiries, and clear warnings about the potential for psychological dependence on AI chatbots.
- With inputs from agencies
