THE INFLUENCE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON WORKERS' MENTAL HEALTH
Abstract
This study analyzes the influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the mental health of workers, considering psychosocial benefits and risks in the context of digital transformation and Industry 4.0. AI, based on techniques such as machine learning and neural networks, has been automating tasks, supporting diagnoses, and optimizing processes, but it also intensifies demands for performance, continuous adaptation, and uncertainties regarding employability. An integrative, descriptive review was conducted in the Scopus database (September/2025 and January/2026), using the descriptors “artificial intelligence” AND “mental health” AND “workers”, filters for 2022–2026, and languages English, Portuguese, or Spanish. The search retrieved 113 studies; after screening by titles/abstracts (17) and full reading, 13 articles comprised the sample. The results indicate ambivalent effects: in some contexts, the adoption of AI is associated with improved mental health by reducing physical intensity, repetitive tasks, and cognitive overload, in addition to increasing income and improving working conditions. In others, technostress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms related to fear of replacement, algorithmic surveillance, role conflicts, and skills gaps emerge, with greater vulnerability among older workers. Evidence also points to the potential of AI tools for psychological support and preventive monitoring in occupational health, provided that ethical and privacy issues are observed. It is concluded that the impacts depend on job redesign, organizational support, communication, and continuous training, requiring institutional strategies and public policies to promote a healthy and sustainable technological transition. Regulation, data protection, and practices that preserve autonomy and dignity are recommended.
Author Biographies
Psicóloga (UCS), Mestre em Administração (UFRGS), Doutora em Psicologia (UFSC), Professora e Coordenadora do PPG em Psicologia da Universidade de Caxias do Sul(UCS). Membro da Associação Nacional de Pesquisa e Pós-Graduação em Psicologia, da Sociedade Brasileira de Psicologia Organizacional e do Trabalho e Integrante da Red Iberoamericana de Psicología de las Organizaciones y el Trabajo.
Bolsista de Iniciação Científica pelo Cnpq, acadêmica do Curso Bacharelado em Psicologia da UCS, bolsita PET.
Bolsista de Iniciação Científica do Ensino Médio/ Cnpq.
Bolsista de Iniciação à Pesquisa, ensino médio.
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