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

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 it matters

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

• 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.

Source

Frontiers in Education — https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2026.1886139