The Threat of Losing a Job to Artificial Intelligence is Taking a Toll on Employee Mental Health
The American Psychological Association (APA) has released a survey that reveals the growing concern among employees about the threat of losing their jobs to artificial intelligence (AI). The survey found that more than one-third of respondents feared that AI might make some or all of their job duties "obsolete."
Stress and Burnout on the Rise
The poll of 2,515 U.S. adults, conducted in April 2023, found that nearly two-thirds of respondents reported feeling tense or stressed during the workday. This stress was particularly prevalent among those who worried about AI, with 50% of this group reporting that their job negatively affected their mental health. These individuals exhibited signs of burnout, including irritability or anger, emotional exhaustion, and feelings of being unmotivated, less productive, and ineffective.
Younger Workers, Employees of Color, and those with a High School Degree or Less More Worried
The survey also found that younger workers, employees of color, and those with a high school degree or less were more worried about the impact of AI on jobs. Additionally, a greater percentage of people who are monitored at work characterized their mental health as poor or fair compared to those who are not surveilled.
The Importance of Transparency and Open Communication
Dr. Dennis P. Stolle, senior director of applied psychology at the APA, believes that the findings are a wake-up call for employers to prioritize transparency and open communication with their employees. "People should not be living in fear when they’re at work," he said. "When given the opportunity to comment on ways employers could boost employee mental health, multiple survey respondents specifically said they wanted monitoring to end."
What Employees Can Do to Cope with Job Displacement and Monitoring Worry
Dr. Stolle recommends that employees concerned about AI job displacement and monitoring can take steps to meaningfully cope with those emotions and reclaim their sense of agency. These steps include:
- Learning about AI and attempting to leverage the technology for their own career gains
- Seeking social support from coworkers and engaging in constructive discussions about the challenges they face
- Presenting creative, reasonable proposals to their employer
- Completing anonymous satisfaction surveys offered by their employer
- Sharing their concerns with loved ones and seeking their support
Conclusion
The survey highlights the urgent need for employers to address the growing concerns of employees about AI job displacement and monitoring. By prioritizing transparency, open communication, and employee well-being, employers can help mitigate the negative effects of AI on mental health and create a more positive work environment.
FAQs
Q: What is the impact of AI on employee mental health?
A: The survey found that employees who worry about AI job displacement and monitoring experience increased stress, burnout, and negative impacts on their mental health.
Q: Who is most concerned about AI job displacement?
A: Younger workers, employees of color, and those with a high school degree or less are more likely to be worried about AI’s impact on jobs.
Q: What can employers do to address employee concerns?
A: Employers should prioritize transparency, open communication, and employee well-being to mitigate the negative effects of AI on mental health and create a more positive work environment.
