Social Workers’ Concerns About Artificial Intelligence: The Mediating Role of Ethics and Innovation

Summary This study investigates social workers’ AI-related concerns by examining sociodemographic and professional factors shaping anxiety and testing predefined hypotheses on the predictive roles of ethical sensitivity and attitudes toward innovation. A quantitative approach using descriptive and correlational survey models was employed to gather data from 410 social workers across various regions in Türkiye. Data were collected through the Artificial Intelligence Anxiety Scale, the Ethics Position Questionnaire, and the Innovative Behavior Inventory. Grounded in ethical sensitivity theory and innovation perspectives, the study applied descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, t -tests, and ANOVA to assess patterns and test predictions related to social workers’ AI-related concerns. Findings A considerable portion of social workers expressed moderate to high levels of AI-related anxiety. Sociodemographic factors such as age, experience, and education influenced these concerns. Ethical idealism, a dimension of ethical sensitivity, was positively correlated with higher anxiety, while a positive attitude toward innovation was linked to lower levels of anxiety, suggesting that openness to technology could mitigate concerns. Applications The study underscores the need to address ethical considerations and promote positive attitudes toward technological innovation among social workers. It suggests that training programs enhancing ethical sensitivity and encouraging openness to innovation could effectively reduce AI-related anxiety. Additionally, the study recommends developing comprehensive policies with ethical guidelines and clear frameworks to ensure the safe integration of AI into social work practices. Such measures aim to build trust and facilitate the secure adoption of AI technologies in professional roles.