AI and the Perception of Workplace Stress in Employees

Abstract

The rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into professional environments has significantly reshaped employee roles and organizational workflows. While AI can potentially enhance productivity and reduce task burden, it also brings forward concerns related to job insecurity, increased task complexity, work-life balance, and the ability to adapt to technological changes. This study investigates how employees perceive AI’s influence on workplace stress through a mixed-methods approach involving both quantitative correlation analysis and qualitative thematic exploration. A structured survey was conducted among 60 professionals across IT, finance, education, and research sectors. The results indicated that negative perceptions of AI such as increased job insecurity and task complexity were positively associated with higher stress levels. In contrast, employees who adapted well to AI technologies reported improved work-life balance and reduced stress. Qualitative responses echoed these patterns, highlighting both enthusiasm for AI’s efficiency and anxiety over changing job expectations. The study offers a comprehensive perspective on AI’s psychological impact, emphasizing the need for organizations to support employee adaptation through transparent communication and skill-building initiatives.