AI and machine learning

technician programming human robot through tablet PC at workshop

A subdiscipline of computer science that aims to produce programs that simulate human intelligence. AI researchers often develop very high-level computer languages for this purpose, such as LISP, PROLOG, and Smalltalk. There are many branches of AI, including robotics, computer vision, machine learning, game playing, and expert systems. AI has also supported research in other related areas, including cognitive science and computational linguistics.

Adapted from the APA Dictionary of Psychology

Resources from APA

Asian businesswoman presenting AI concepts at business meeting.

Ethical Emotionally Intelligent AI Chatbot Design

Learn how AI can shape human thinking, trust, judgment, and behavior—and why understanding these overlooked dynamics changes how we use and design conversational AI

Speaking of Psychology: AI "de-skilling": What happens when we offload our work to AI? With Brooke Macnamara, PhD

AI ‘de-skilling’: What happens when we offload our work to AI?

Brooke Macnamara, PhD, discusses the psychology of cognitive offloading

Speaking of Psychology: Why listening well is harder—and more powerfulv than you think, with Guy Itzchakov, PhD

Why listening well is harder—and more powerful—than you think

Guy Itzchakov, PhD, talks about what distinguishes high-quality listening from just staying quiet while someone else talks

two people looking at a computer screen

Psychology's moment in the AI revolution

APA’s Center for Behavioral Science and AI brings psychological expertise to technology

How AI is reshaping human skills and thinking

Can regular AI use in work and daily life impact job skills and key cognitive abilities?

teen boy and therapist during session

Discussing AI use in therapy

Patients are using chatbots for emotional support. Here’s what clinicians need to know

teen boy using AI on laptop

How to talk to patients about AI

Psychologists are well-positioned to help their patients navigate AI thoughtfully and safely

man looking at smartphone

Navigating AI-generated advice thoughtfully and safely

Evidence-based suggestions on appropriate use of AI for mental, emotional, and behavioral health

More resources about AI

Youth and AI

Your teen turned to AI instead of you

What experts say you can do to stay connected

Four ways parents can help teens use AI safely

Navigating AI thoughtfully can maximize benefits and avoid potential pitfalls

Why every teen needs to learn AI literacy

Knowing how to spot bias and evaluate responses are crucial skills in the digital world

Many teens are turning to AI chatbots

Technology is shaping youths’ social bonds and connections

APA health advisories

Generative AI chatbots and wellness apps

Recommendations for consumer safety and well-being when using mental health chatbots and apps

AI and adolescent well-being

Recommendations for ensuring adolescents’ safety when using artificial intelligence

Member exclusive ebooklet

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Member exclusive

Artificial intelligence: Redefining the future of psychologylogin required

Learn how to harness this groundbreaking technology to amplify our impact like never before. This ebooklet covers current concerns and promises of this new technology—from its ethical and theoretical underpinnings to practical applications in a variety of scenarios within the field of psychology.