Dr. Rachel Flynn participates in congressional briefing on AI, youth wellbeing

Associate Professor of Child and Adolescent Development Rachel Flynn recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to participate in the congressional briefing, “Generation AI: Youth Mental Health and Well-Being in a Digital World.” The event was organized in collaboration with the Congressional Mental Health Caucus on Capitol Hill and hosted by the Society for Research on Child Development and Child Policy Connect. 

At the briefing, Flynn addressed a full room of attendees and later met with policymakers to discuss emerging concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) and its effects on children and adolescents. Her participation highlighted the growing need for research-informed policy as AI becomes more integrated into young people’s daily lives. 

Flynn also co-authored the leave-behind brief, “The Child Development Perspective on Artificial Intelligence: Emerging Policy Considerations for AI’s Impact on Children’s Wellbeing.” The brief outlines three key recommendations for policymakers and practitioners: introduce AI literacy early, keep AI use task-bound and require safeguards for relational and mental health applications. 

The day brought together researchers, advocates and policymakers to examine how AI is shaping youth mental health and wellbeing in a rapidly changing digital world. Flynn’s contributions underscore the role of developmental science in guiding policies that support children’s healthy development and protect their wellbeing.

Full announcement on the SFSU Campus Memo April 13, 2026.