Friday 24 July 08:15
- 09:45
Hall: 17 - Room 14 SA
Chair and Presenter:
Pizzoli Silvia Francesca Maria
Co-Chair:
Vilone Giulia
Division: Division 14: Applied Cognitive Psychology
This symposium explores how emerging digital technologies—spanning artificial intelligence (AI), wearable devices, and immersive tools such as Virtual Reality (VR) devices—are transforming psychology, health, and the promotion of well-being. By bringing together experts in AI research, European Union (EU) law, and applied psychology, the session highlights the promise and challenges of integrating technological innovation into applied psychological practices.
The presentations will address multiple, complementary dimensions. Talks on explainable AI will examine how transparency and interpretability can enhance the responsible use of large language models in psychological research, clinical practice, and mental health interventions. Legal scholars will critically evaluate the implications of EU regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the AI Act, with a particular focus on issues of data protection, informed consent, and accountability in psychological contexts. Other contributions will focus on the role of wearable and immersive technologies for stress management, resilience building, and cognitive enhancement, showcasing their capacity to provide real-time feedback while also considering risks of over-reliance and digital exclusion.
The symposium will also address broader ethical and societal concerns, including the reinforcement of biases and stereotypes, the generation of harmful content, and the importance of safeguarding psychological autonomy in an era of pervasive technology.
The topic is highly relevant to the ICAP congress because it addresses a rapidly evolving intersection between psychology and technology. While the integration of AI, wearables, and VR devices into psychological science and practice is advancing quickly, the evidence base, ethical frameworks, and regulatory standards remain under development. By promoting dialogue across disciplines, this symposium will provide novel insights and stimulate debate on how to leverage these technologies to advance health and well-being while upholding the professional and ethical standards of the field of psychology.
