Anxiety buffers and the threat of extreme automation: a terror management theory perspective

IF 4.9 3区 管理学 Q1 INFORMATION SCIENCE & LIBRARY SCIENCE
Frank G. Goethals, Jennifer L. Ziegelmayer
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引用次数: 1

Abstract

PurposeThe advent of extreme automation from new technologies such as artificial intelligence portends a massive increase in unemployment. The psychological impact of this threat on the workforce is critically important. This paper aims to examine the functioning of individuals' anxiety buffers in response to this threat.Design/methodology/approachA two-stage mixed-methods design is used. In stage 1, qualitative data are gathered through semi-structured interviews. In stage 2, quantitative data are collected through two experiments to assess the psychological impact of exposure to the threat.FindingsExposure to the threat of extreme automation reduces self-esteem, faith in the worldview and attachment security. When self-esteem and attachment security are under attack, they are ineffective as anxiety buffers, and anxiety levels increase. Additionally, there is a distal effect such that during a period of distraction, the threatened anxiety buffers are reinforced and return to their normal levels.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is limited to a homogenous culture in which work is highly salient. Future research should include other cultures, other methods of exposure and further examine the distal effects.Originality/valueThe study examines the previously underexplored issue of individuals' psychological response to the impending changes in the workforce because of technological advancements.
焦虑缓冲和极端自动化的威胁:一个恐怖管理理论的视角
人工智能等新技术带来的极度自动化预示着失业率的大幅上升。这种威胁对劳动力的心理影响至关重要。本文旨在研究个体焦虑缓冲在应对这种威胁时的功能。设计/方法/方法采用两阶段混合方法设计。在第一阶段,通过半结构化访谈收集定性数据。在第二阶段,通过两个实验收集定量数据来评估暴露于威胁的心理影响。暴露在极度自动化的威胁下会降低自尊、世界观信念和依恋安全感。当自尊和依恋安全受到攻击时,它们作为焦虑缓冲的作用无效,焦虑水平上升。此外,还有一种远端效应,即在注意力分散期间,受到威胁的焦虑缓冲得到加强,并恢复到正常水平。研究局限/启示本研究仅限于工作高度突出的同质文化。未来的研究应该包括其他的培养,其他的暴露方法,并进一步研究远端影响。独创性/价值该研究考察了先前未被充分探讨的问题,即由于技术进步而即将发生的劳动力变化,个人的心理反应。
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来源期刊
Information Technology & People
Information Technology & People INFORMATION SCIENCE & LIBRARY SCIENCE-
CiteScore
8.20
自引率
13.60%
发文量
121
期刊介绍: Information Technology & People publishes work that is dedicated to understanding the implications of information technology as a tool, resource and format for people in their daily work in organizations. Impact on performance is part of this, since it is essential to the well being of employees and organizations alike. Contributions to the journal include case studies, comparative theory, and quantitative research, as well as inquiries into systems development methods and practice.
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