ACCEPTANCE OF AI-DRIVEN MENTAL HEALTH APPLICATIONS AMONG PAKISTANI YOUTH: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

This study examines the acceptance of AI-based mental health applications among Pakistani youth, emphasizing factors such as perceived usefulness, ease of use, trust, privacy concerns, and demographic influences. Utilizing the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), findings indicate a generally positive attitude toward AI-driven mental health tools, with participants acknowledging their potential to support mental health management. However, privacy concerns and trust issues emerged as significant barriers, with respondents hesitant to share sensitive personal data with AI systems. Demographic factors, including age and education level, influenced acceptance, with younger and more educated individuals demonstrating higher receptivity. The study provides critical insights into the cultural context of Pakistan, where confidentiality concerns and the perceived importance of human interaction shape attitudes toward AI mental health solutions. Recommendations include enhancing privacy measures, fostering trust, and designing culturally sensitive applications to improve adoption and effectiveness among youth.