Sebastian Kot

The Management Faculty, Czestochowa University of Technology,

Poland;

Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences, North-West University, Vaal Triangle Campus, Vanderbijlpark, 

South Africa

sebastian.kot@pcz.pl 

ORCID 000-0002-8272-6918

Embracing vulnerability in AI-mediated coaching: A developmental pathway for ethical HRD

Harmandeep Kaur

Research and Development, Scientific Societal & Behavioral Research Center (SSBRC), 

Canada

harman@ssbrc.com

ORCID 0009-0004-3876-2104

Adnan ul Haque

Business and Management, Yorkville University, 

Canada;

Research and Development, Scientific Societal & Behavioral Research Center (SSBRC), 

Canada

ahaque@yorkvilleu.ca

ORCID 0000-0003-2051-8635

Abstract. Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into human resource development (HRD) practices, particularly in coaching, mentoring, and feedback systems. While AI enhances scalability and efficiency, it may also diminish the sensitivity required for meaningful learning, ethical reflection, and relational development. This study explores how individuals experience vulnerability in AI-mediated coaching. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with 34 HRD practitioners, coaches, and professionals across Canadian organizations, we identify three patterns of vulnerability enactment (1) algorithmic suppression, where AI systems inadvertently signal psychological risk; (2) mediated vulnerability, where individuals navigate partial openness in digital contexts; and (3) cultivated courage, where intentional HRD practices allow vulnerability to flourish despite technological constraints. Our findings indicate that AI systems often reduce relational cues and prioritize efficiency over developmental depth. However, when HRD practitioners deliberately design for vulnerability through facilitator presence, reflective pauses, and ethical framing: AI-mediated environments can support, rather than hinder, developmental growth. We contribute to HRD theory by extending vulnerability as a developmental construct into AI-mediated contexts and refining the automation–augmentation paradox to include vulnerability as a critical moderating mechanism. Practically, we offer guiding principles for designing AI-enabled HRD tools that preserve human connection, ethical reflection, and social justice.

Received: July, 2025

1st Revision: March, 2026

Accepted: June, 2026

DOI: 10.14254/2071-8330.2026/19-2/2

JEL Classification: J24, O33, M53

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, HRD, vulnerability, coaching, ethical development, social justice, Canada