Objectives: The rapid integration of artificial intelligence in workplace environments has transformed job structures, automated tasks, and altered employees’ work experiences. The present study aimed to examine the relationship between employees’ attitudes toward artificial intelligence and occupational depression, with the mediating roles of perceived job insecurity and perceived job fit.
Methods: In this descriptive–correlational study, 261 employees of the Telecommunication Company of Kerman Province were selected using convenience sampling and completed the Schepman & Rodwav (2020) Attitudes Toward Artificial Intelligence Scale, Nassasira (2020) Job Insecurity Questionnaire, Shafi Abadi and Rezaei (1997) Occupational Self-Concept Questionnaire, and Bianchi and Schonfeld (2020) Occupational Depression Inventory. The conceptual model was tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling.
Results: A positive attitude toward artificial intelligence was associated with a significant reduction in occupational depression (b=-0.12, p=0.038) decreased job insecurity (b=-0.501, p<0.001), and increased job fit (b=0.471, p<0.001). Job insecurity showed a positive relationship with occupational depression (b=0.417, p<0.001), whereas job fit showed a negative relationship (b=-0.243, p<0.001). Job insecurity (b=-0.209, p<0.001) and job fit (b=-0.114, p=0.002) mediated the relationship between attitudes toward artificial intelligence and occupational depression.
Conclusion: A positive attitude toward artificial intelligence reduces occupational depression by decreasing job insecurity and increasing job fit. The findings highlight the importance of fostering positive attitudes toward artificial intelligence through training, role redesign, and transparent communication within organizations to strengthen employees’ psychological security and perceived job fit
Type of Study:
Research |
Subject:
Industrial and Organizational Psychology Received: 2025/10/16 | Accepted: 2025/12/24 | ePublished: 2025/12/24