The predictive role of artificial intelligence applications in enhancing psychological flourishing & sustainable development among Fayoum University students

Abstract Purpose This study examines the extent to which artificial intelligence (AI) applications predict psychological flourishing and sustainable development among Fayoum University students. It further explores gender differences in AI usage, flourishing levels, and sustainability orientations, as well as the interrelationships among the three variables. Methods A quantitative correlational design was employed using validated scales measuring AI application use, psychological flourishing, and sustainable development. The sample consisted of 190 university students from Fayoum University (Egypt) there ages were between 20 and 25 years. The mean age was 22.54 years, with a standard deviation of 3.22 years. Data were analyzed using t-tests, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, and simple linear regression to test the study hypotheses. Results Findings revealed no significant gender differences in AI application use, while significant differences were found in psychological flourishing and sustainable development in favor of male students. Significant positive correlations emerged among AI use, flourishing, and sustainability. Regression analyses showed that AI application use moderately predicted psychological flourishing (R 2 = 0.098) but strongly predicted sustainable development (R 2 = 0.604), indicating that AI plays a substantial role in shaping students’ sustainability-related behaviors. Conclusions The study demonstrates that AI applications contribute meaningfully to enhancing students’ well-being and sustainability practices, with a stronger influence on sustainability outcomes. These findings underscore the growing relevance of AI-driven learning environments in promoting sustainable education and student development. Implications The results highlight the need for integrating AI-based tools into higher education policies, fostering responsible AI use, and developing institutional initiatives that enhance students’ well-being and sustainability competencies.