Algorithmic management and gig workers' workplace wellbeing: the moderating role of psychological resilience.

Abstract

This study examines how algorithmic management in the gig economy is related to gig workers' workplace wellbeing. Specifically, we explore how algorithmic management corresponds with (positive) challenge appraisal and (negative) threat appraisal. We also examine the moderating role of psychological resilience in these relationships, as well as the implications of appraisal processes for workplace wellbeing. Data were collected from 389 food delivery workers in China. We find that algorithmic management is positively associated with both challenge appraisal and threat appraisal. Challenge appraisal is positively associated with workplace wellbeing, whereas threat appraisal is negatively associated with workplace wellbeing. Psychological resilience strengthens the challenge-appraisal pathway and the corresponding positive indirect relationship with workplace wellbeing, but it does not significantly buffer the threat-appraisal pathway. These findings show that algorithmic management is associated with both positive and negative appraisal processes and that psychological resilience may play different roles across these pathways. The study therefore offers a more nuanced explanation of the relationship between algorithmic management and gig workers' workplace wellbeing.