We are immersed in a world with all types of artificial intelligence (AI). Most of us feel a mixture of astonishment and astonishment, and sometimes we are dismayed and alarmed. Experts predict (and we can all see) that the inclusion of AI in our daily lives is likely here to stay.
There are AIs used by the general public, such as ChatGPT or Alexa, but also more sophisticated AIs, such as those used by specialists in medicine or computer science. Professionals are wondering whether AI will lead to competition or collaboration, and we are all probably wondering how it will impact the professions and careers of our future generations.
Psychologists and mental health providers are also beginning to adopt AI tools in their practices, primarily for routine administrative work, but how AI could potentially be used for clinical assistance in an ethical and appropriate manner is evolving. Just like most people, psychologists are also thinking about how AI could be useful.
Mixed Feelings About AI
Some technological advancements may remind us of amazing features seen in childhood science fiction stories, like The Jetsons Or Star Trek; Yet tragic cases of AI gone wrong leave us in shock. Humanized products seem surprisingly attractive at first glance, but our awareness of the other side of the coin is deeply troubling.
We like how Siri and Alexa can understand our commands, but it’s a little strange when information seems to have been overheard inadvertently. GPS or Grammarly can be extremely useful, but similar computerized algorithms that know our recent purchases or travel plans can seem a little scary. We might love the magical way image recognition can organize our images or the way Spotify can make song recommendations, but it’s more troubling to know that personal photos or music preferences are stored somewhere and could potentially be monetized.
We want our doctors to have access to surgical robots for faster, smoother procedures, but we get frustrated when clunky customer service robots misunderstand us. Email management is made easier with these spam filters, but knowing that our mail is sorted in an amorphous technology cloud can seem a little annoying. We can understand how AI research saves us time, but we also lament the diminishing skills of individual investigation and exploration.
The approach to both
Just as the initial arrival of cars, televisions, comic books, and cell phones led to far-reaching warnings and predictions of danger, AI alarm bells are ringing. We have all experienced positive progress, but there are also concerns when things go awry or are handled in questionable ways. And, in a surprisingly short period of time, we have already gone from early adoption to addiction.
Humans often struggle with new and different things, and part of this probably has to do with the growing pains associated with transitions. And while we sometimes love and crave new things, we can also have mixed feelings about things that are beyond our usual understanding and over which we have limited control.
Since most changes are rarely all good or all bad, we generally need to apply the one-at-a-time approach. It means accepting that we can be nervous, worried, and preoccupied while still being curious, interested, and excited. As with most new life experiences, mixed and multiple emotions are normative and expected. We can consciously appreciate both sides.
Impact on mental health
Psychologists and mental health providers are paying close attention to the impact of AI on the world of mental health. It has become clear that some people find it easier to ask about their personal mental health concerns online and might appreciate the options for seemingly private, personalized care 24/7. But we are also increasingly aware of the risks of sharing information in cyberspace.
Parenting in the digital world is also challenging, with families needing to strive to be mindful of their own and their children’s use of screens as a potential source of avoidance, excessive social comparisons, sleep interruptions and experience blocks. This is a completely new area where better understanding is needed.
Another area having a significant impact on mental health is the growing use of AI companions. Using AI robots as your sole confidant is problematic. Human relationships are not and should not be always valid and without mood swings. How AI is more of a sycophantic echo chamber is increasingly understood, but its appeal can be particularly strong when someone is feeling more vulnerable.
Fortunately, there is an upside to the way some AI tools allow for more community, less isolation, and increased validation, and some AI insights allow quick access to important tips and helpful strategies in the mental health field. And AI can actually fill some gaps in care, especially for those who don’t have access to services. Advances in AI have also enabled exciting applications of treatment methods, such as virtual exposure therapy for certain fears and phobias, which were not possible just a decade ago.
There is something about a quick, clear response that sometimes seems more credible, but developing media literacy skills is essential. We need to be critical consumers, remaining mindful of how advice received online may be wrong. This may sometimes sound like flight attendants giving safety instructions to a deaf person, but we must continue to provide robust, non-sensationalist warnings and education.
Resources and repetitions, no replacement
Turning to AI to brainstorm ideas, research resources, or participate in interpersonal rehearsals can all be excellent uses of this available assistance. Family, friends, and therapists do not always have access to some of the latest research available on a particular topic, nor are they immediately available to play a role in a conversation. However, humans still need humans.
We can use the AI tools that work, such as helpful apps and informational assistance, while hopefully retaining the irreplaceable connection with the real person. While we may initially appreciate the consistently enthusiastic and validating engagement we currently receive from AI bots, this is ultimately neither realistic nor sustainable. Humans are indeed complex, moody and imperfect, but they are still the best beings to connect with.
Using AI to increase adaptive capacity and strategize enforcement action can be beneficial, but the spiral of complaints and isolation is not. Moving forward effectively in real-life relationships and situations allows you to utilize the benefits of AI without becoming overly reliant or reliant. Training wheels on a bike can be helpful to a child as they learn to ride, but the goal is for the child to eventually be able to balance on their own.
Psychology can play a role in future improvements
Psychologists and other specialists in the science of human behavior can help programmers better configure AI to help more realistically. Using concepts from psychological science, knowledge about interpersonal needs, and evidence-based therapies can help create appropriate guardrails for safety. And continued work, especially among young people, to advocate for critical consumerism, fact-checking and media literacy is essential.
