Is it time to measure cognitive stunting?

The Brookings Global Task Force has raised concerns about generative AI’s impact on children’s cognitive development, fearing cognitive offloading and decline due to heavy reliance on AI tools.
The fear is that systematic AI use in schoolwork may stunt cognitive development by reducing opportunities for effortful thinking and critical skill acquisition.
Cognitive stunting is framed as the risk AI poses by preventing the experience of struggle, practice, and adaptation that are essentials to learning and cognitive growth.
Evidence suggests that heavy AI tool use can negatively affect thinking abilities, especially in younger users, potentially leading to diminished critical inquiry, creativity, and resilience.
While AI can support learning when used correctly and within pedagogical guidance, unmediated interactions with general-purpose AI tools pose greater developmental risks.
To address cognitive stunting, systematic measurement approaches similar to those for detecting physical growth issues should be developed for cognitive development in relation to AI use.
Policymakers are urged to explore defining, measuring, and tracking cognitive stunting, including engaging with AI developers to mitigate risks associated with AI use.
Ensuring children learn to think before using AI is essential, as they will need sophisticated thinking skills to navigate the complexities of modern life.

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