AI Boosts Performance but Affects Employee Emotions

Abstract

Drawing on Lazarus's appraisal theory, the current research provides an integrative review of AI (artificial intelligence) and discusses its implications for emotion. Although prior studies have praised the merits of AI-M (AI-driven management), how AI-M affects employees and their emotions is not always clear. To respond to the knowledge gap, the authors conduct new research and seek answers through the amalgamation and analysis of both theoretical viewpoints and empirical studies. Through this process, they have learnt that AI-M brings diverse triggers of negative emotions, affecting both managers and employees. For employees, AI-M may lead to job insecurity and fewer career development opportunities. For managers, AI-M may take over the ownership of decision-making and compromise their influence in the workplace. To help employees cope with negative emotions, the authors reviewed the literature on emotional intelligence (EI) and proposed three EI-enhanced strategies. They also proposed three managerial schemes, enabling managers to guide their subordinates in coping with negative emotions.