LLLWeek'26 - AI Across the Lifespan in Europe: Access, Risks, and EMDR Applications

Artificial intelligence (AI) increasingly shapes learning, communication, and mental health across the lifespan. Within Europe, access, digital literacy, and vulnerability vary between countries, generations, and social groups and ages. However, we see a lack of awareness about the impact of AI on the general public and learners in particular; while it is clear that AI can be used positively for learning purposes across all ages, we also know that we must protect ourselves and our children from its negative impact - including addiction, decreased empathy, decreased socialisation skills, etc. Children and adolescents, often described as “digital natives,” face manipulation, cyberviolence, sexual boundary violations, and developmentally inappropriate interactions. Adults may experience disinformation, digital abuse, and psychosocial harm, while older people may be particularly vulnerable to isolation and fraud. Various countries including Australia and Germany address these issues by increasing the legal age at which youngsters can use AI - fully knowing…