ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, SOCIAL SUPPORT SYSTEMS, AND COPING MECHANISMS; THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

Abstract

The research examines the application of artificial intelligence (AI) systems as emerging support solutions by individuals to deal with stress and improve coping skills. Based on the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, Social Support Theory, and socio-technical approaches, the study focuses on how AI self-efficacy, level of use, perceived social support, and accessibility affect the outcome of coping. Quantitative research results indicate that the positive impact of AI tools is measurable (stress reduction, better decisions, and increased perceived support), but their usefulness depends on the user attributes, cultural standards, and situational influence. Notable predictors emphasize the AI self-efficacy and usage patterns as the important predictors of the coping responses. It also pinpoints the possible hazards during the study such as over-reliance, loss of human interaction, privacy, and false directions. Transparency, protection of data, and limits of AI capability are some of the ethical issues highlighted. The results are relevant to a unified model of human-AI coping and provide a practical implication to mental health services, educational and workplace wellbeing programs aiming to introduce AI in a responsible way.