Artificial intelligence for contextual well-being: Protocol for an exploratory sequential mixed methods study with medical students as a social microcosm.

Journal: PloS one
Published Date:

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: AI-powered conversational agents have proven effective in alleviating psychological distress, however, concerns about autonomy and authentic psychological development remain, especially in youth during critical stages of identity and resilience formation. Despite the increasing use of AI technologies, there is a significant gap in well-being literacy within educational systems. This gap leaves young adults ill-prepared to navigate the complexities of real world challenges, contributing to rising rates of anxiety, stress, and depression. Furthermore, the lack of AI literacy can exacerbate psychological distress, negatively impacting academic performance and overall well-being. As young adults actively engage with AI, efforts should focus not on resisting technological progress but on fostering their development as users who are capable, aware, and ethical in addressing their contextual well-being needs. This study aims to extend the understanding of the factors influencing well-being and determine how to harness artificial intelligence for contextual well-being from a human-centred perspective.

Authors

  • Yao Xie
    Georgia Institute of Technology.
  • Kayode Philip Fadahunsi
    Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London, England, United Kingdom.
  • John Broughan
    Clinical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
  • John O' Donoghue
    Business Information System, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
  • Joseph Gallagher
    University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
  • Walter Cullen
    School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.