This Special Issue focuses on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the fields of psychology, social work, and educational sciences. As AI technologies continue to advance, their influence extends beyond traditional infrastructure into the "soft" infrastructure of societal systems such as education, mental health, and social services. This Special Issue aims to explore how AI-driven solutions can support psychological well-being, enhance social work practices, and improve educational outcomes, all within the framework of policy development. By investigating the intersection of AI with these human-centered disciplines, the issue seeks to foster discussions on the responsible and equitable integration of AI in social and educational systems.

Through a multi-disciplinary lens, the Special Issue addresses key areas such as psychological assessment, behavioral interventions, educational innovation, and the use of AI in shaping public policies that affect community development. Contributors are invited to explore the ethical, practical, and theoretical implications of embedding AI in socio-educational environments, particularly with a focus on underserved and vulnerable populations. By providing actionable insights, this Special Issue will contribute to a deeper understanding of AI's role in driving socio-educational transformation and policy development.

Suggested Themes:

1. AI-Driven mental health interventions and social work practices: Exploring how AI technologies such as predictive analytics and machine learning can support psychological interventions, improve mental health services, and enhance decision-making in social work. Topics may include AI-based assessments, mental health monitoring, and automated support systems for social workers.

2. AI integration in educational systems and policy development: Examining the role of AI in shaping educational strategies and policies aimed at fostering inclusive learning environments. This theme invites research on AI's capacity to personalize learning, enhance student engagement, and inform data-driven education policies, particularly in marginalized or underserved communities.

3. Psychological impacts of AI technologies in social and educational contexts: Investigating the cognitive and emotional effects of AI on individuals and communities, with a focus on how AI systems influence identity, well-being, and social behaviors. Contributions could address how AI changes human interactions, reinforces or mitigates psychological issues, and shapes societal expectations.

4. Ethical and policy considerations for AI in socio-educational settings: Discussing the ethical challenges and policy implications of implementing AI technologies in psychological services, social work, and education. This theme encourages debates around data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the potential for AI to exacerbate inequality or offer solutions for more equitable access to resources.

5. AI and public policy for societal development: Case studies and policy analyses on the implementation of AI-driven systems in public services related to education and social work. This includes discussions on how governments and institutions can leverage AI to develop policies that support mental health, social inclusion, and educational equity in a sustainable manner.

The Special Issue will include a mix of theoretical explorations, empirical research, case studies, and policy recommendations aimed at providing a comprehensive overview of AI’s transformative role in psychology, social work, and educational sciences.