Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department of Psychology and Counselling, Farhangian University, P.O. Box 14665-889, Tehran, Iran.
2
Ph.D. Candidate in Counseling, Department of Counseling, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
3
Professor of Counseling, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
Abstract
Background and Objectives: With the growing application of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational and psychological domains, attention to the lived experiences of student–teachers majoring in Guidance and Counseling regarding the use of this technology in promoting individual mental health has gained increasing importance. The present study aimed to explore the lived experiences of student–teachers in the Guidance and Counseling program at Farhangian University concerning the application of AI in the development of personal mental health. .Methods: This research employed a qualitative approach within the framework of Colaizzi’s descriptive phenomenology. The study population consisted of male student–teachers majoring in Guidance and Counseling at Farhangian University, Ardabil branch, during the 2024–2025 academic year. Data were collected through 14 in-depth, semi-structured interviews, using purposeful sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data analysis was conducted following Colaizzi’s (1978) seven-step coding procedure. Findings: The findings revealed that the participants primarily experienced AI as a cognitive mediator and auxiliary thinking tool, which helped reduce anxiety, enhance self-awareness, and organize thoughts during situations of academic pressure, mental rumination, and psychological loneliness. At the same time, the participants’ experiences reflected a dual perception of opportunity and challenge concerning AI—while it facilitated self-care and a sense of psychological control, concerns were raised about cognitive dependency, limitations in deep emotional understanding, and the replacement of human interaction.Conclusion: The results indicate that the role of artificial intelligence in individual mental health is complementary, conditional, and dependent on users’ level of awareness and manner of utilization.
Keywords
Main Subjects
)