𝐀𝐈 & 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 (US)
The increasing adoption of artificial intelligence and monitoring technologies in the workplace has raised concerns about their impact on employees. With technologies rapidly changing how work gets done, it is timely and essential to understand how these changes affect psychological well-being, stress, and feelings of value among workers. The American Psychological Association (APA) conducted research examining precisely that.
38% of workers reported worrying that AI could make their job duties obsolete. Nearly two out of every five workers expressed concerns that AI may replace some or all of their responsibilities at work.
Those worried about AI reported experiencing more stress and tension during the workday compared to those not concerned about AI. 64% of workers worried about AI felt tense or stressed versus 38% of those not concerned.
Lower-educated workers (Black, Hispanic and Asian) were significantly more likely to worry about AI replacing their jobs than higher-educated and white workers.
51% of workers said their employer uses technology to monitor them across the office, manual labour, and customer service
Being monitored was associated with feeling uncomfortable, micromanaged, and emotionally exhausted compared to non-monitored workers. They were less likely to feel valued.
These findings highlight an important point. AI and monitoring tools aim to increase efficiency and productivity. But, using them may also increase worker stress and make employees feel less valued. As these technologies spread, employers should consider their impact on mental health.
Adopting new technologies poses a challenge for organisational cultures. It gives employers a key chance to shape the work experience while upholding ethical, inclusive practices. These help ensure employees feel supported through disruptions.
Companies should use AI and monitoring to build trust and dignity. Otherwise, workers may feel insignificant and disposable. Companies gain long-term advantages by creating ethical cultures where people feel safe - even during significant changes. This brings longer-term profits...
(source: APA American Psychological Association)
