Intelligence

publisher

Perceived skill devaluation as an indirect statistical pathway between perceived generative AI impact and algorithmic anxiety among college students: associations with adaptive coping strategies

Source
Frontiers in Education
Published
Last verified
12 Aug 2026
Confidence
Moderate
Evidence
Original document retained
Reading time
1 min
Country
International
Relevant to
Technology & Data, Research & Evidence, Strategy & Planning, Executive Leadership, People & Capability

Executive summary

What happened, and why should leadership care?

A study in Frontiers in Education (International) investigates the relationship between college students' perceptions of generative AI's impact and their psychological responses. It identifies a positive association between perceived AI technological impact and perceived skill devaluation, as well as algorithmic anxiety. The research suggests that generative AI is reshaping employment and competency requirements for graduates.

Why this matters

Why is this strategically important?

The findings highlight a critical emerging concern regarding the psychological impact of AI on the future workforce, specifically among college students. Understanding these perceptions is crucial for developing proactive strategies to prepare individuals for evolving job markets and to mitigate potential negative impacts on well-being and career development.

Key insights

What should be noted from the evidence?

  • Generative AI is transforming graduates' employment landscapes, job-competency requirements, and career competition.
  • A cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted among college students to explore AI's perceived impact.
  • Perceived AI technological impact is positively associated with perceived skill devaluation.
  • Perceived AI technological impact is positively associated with algorithmic anxiety.
  • The study also examined associations with career self-efficacy, growth mindset, and adaptive coping strategies, though specific results for these were not provided in the summary.

Evidence and confidence

How far can this assessment be trusted?

Moderate confidence. Provenance established; supporting evidence remains partial.

Analysis is prepared editorially by Aziz Shuaib Ausi. The original publication remains the authoritative record, and executive judgement remains entirely human.

Source

Where does this originate?

Reported by Frontiers in Education · International. This briefing summarises the publication for executive use; the document itself is not reproduced here.

Read the original publication