Welcome to #Scriptblr!
#Scriptblr hopes to spark youths' curiosity about social and policy issues in the tech world, and to make this platform a safe space to build knowledge and awareness.
About YouthTech Institute
#Scriptblr is a YouthTech Institute (YTI) initiative, built as part of YTI's national platform addressing vulnerabilities amongst youths, brought on by emerging technologies. YTI hopes to build digital confidence, skills, and pathways that help young people and society thrive in a digital world.
As part of our efforts to spotlight youth perspectives, YTI has worked with international organisations, local government, industry and most importantly, our peers. YTI is a branch within our parent organisation, YouthTechSG.
Hear From The Youth
Whether you’re just getting started with tech or ready to contribute to the discussion, #Scriptblr has something for you. Our explainers break things down simply, while our thought leadership pieces let youth speak up on the digital issues that matter.
The Headlines
We know that there is so much content online, and we want to help cut through the noise. These are our team's top picks for the most relevant local and global updates on AI and online trust and safety.
Note: YouthTechSG would like to clarify that all images used and articles referenced below have been adapted directly from the linked articles, which are solely the hard work of the respective news outlets. The headlines and summaries were written by the #Scriptblr team, with special thanks to Luo Xuhong for the March edition.
Singaporean Youth Turn Towards AI Chatbots for Mental Health Support
Poor mental health is an increasingly prevalent issue in our city-state’s high pressure environment, where an Institute of Mental Health study (2024) revealed that around 1 in 3 Singaporean youth reported struggles with mental health. In place of lingering stigma surrounding seeking professional therapy, AI chatbots have emerged as an accessible and low-cost alternative where advice arrives at the touch of a button. However, professionals have warned against excessive reliance on AI due to risks of inaccurate tips or even harmful coping mechanisms being offered. Chatbots are also unable to replicate the depth offered by human connections while in the most serious cases, even worsened delusions and paranoia experienced by users. Would you consider seeking emotional support from an AI chatbot?