Regional cognitive pathways to intention to use AI: a structural equation modeling approach
Yewon Jang1, Tae Gyoon Jeong1, Tongjoo Suh1
1College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang, Republic of Korea.
Frontiers in Psychology
|June 5, 2026
Summary
Artificial intelligence (AI) adoption intention is linked to perceived efficiency and AI concerns. Policies should address regional disparities in AI knowledge and application capabilities for inclusive digital transformation.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Technology and Innovation Studies
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Understanding factors influencing artificial intelligence (AI) adoption is crucial for digital transformation.
- Cognitive pathways to AI adoption intention can vary based on regional context.
- Perceptual factors like perceived efficiency and AI concerns play a role in AI adoption decisions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how cognitive pathways linking AI knowledge and application capability to AI use intention differ between megacity and non-megacity regions.
- To model perceived efficiency and AI concerns as key perceptual factors in AI adoption.
- To provide insights for developing targeted policies to promote inclusive AI integration.
Main Methods:
- Utilized nationwide survey data from South Korea.
- Employed a multi-group structural equation modeling approach.
- Differentiated analysis between megacity and non-megacity regions.
Main Results:
- Perceived efficiency strongly correlates with AI intention to use, while AI concerns show a weaker association.
- In megacities, AI application capability positively influences perceived efficiency.
- In non-megacities, both AI knowledge and application capability positively influence perceived efficiency and AI intention to use.
Conclusions:
- AI adoption decisions are influenced by individual proficiency and contextual AI access.
- Regional disparities in AI knowledge and application capabilities impact adoption pathways.
- Policies should focus on strengthening AI capabilities in non-megacity regions for equitable digital transformation.
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