Digital Influencers’ Impact on Adolescents Behavior and the Role of AI in Mitigating Associated Risks

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This study explored the contribution of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered content filtering systems to mitigating the influence of digital influencers on adolescent behaviors from a social work perspective. Its significance stems from the growing influence of digital influencers across social media platforms and its potential implications for adolescents' values and behaviors, amid an increasing need for technological tools that enhance digital protection. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach, in which questionnaires were administered to a sample of 18 so-cial workers, 52 teachers, and 77 students from an international school in the United Arab Emirates. In-depth in-terviews were also conducted with students to explore their experiences and perceptions of digital influencers and digital protection mechanisms. The findings revealed that intensive exposure to digital influencer content is asso-ciated with potential negative effects on adolescents' identity, social values, consumer behaviors, and academic performance. The results also showed that AI-powered content filtering systems contribute to enhancing digital protection within the school environment by limiting access to inappropriate content and reducing exposure to negative influences associated with digital influencers. The study further emphasized the importance of integrating technological solutions with professional social work interventions to foster adolescents' critical awareness. Ac-cordingly, it recommended expanding the use of AI applications in protecting adolescents, supporting media and digital literacy programs, and activating the role of social workers, educational institutions, and families in building a safer digital environment.