The Relationship Between General Attitudes towards AI and Work Engagement Among Generation Z

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has experienced rapid growth, particularly among Generation Z in the workplace. AI offers numerous benefits across various domains, especially in enhancing productivity and work efficiency. However, the advancement of this technology has also generated concerns, such as job insecurity resulting from fears of being replaced by technology. Individuals' attitudes toward AI influence how they accept and utilize AI technologies. General attitudes toward AI may be either positive or negative, depending on how individuals perceive the development of AI technology. These differences in attitudes may influence individuals' work experiences, including their level of engagement at work. Work engagement is a positive psychological state characterized by vigor, dedication, and absorption in work activities. This study aimed to examine the relationship between general attitudes toward AI and work engagement among Generation Z. A quantitative approach with a correlational design was employed. The sample consisted of 101 Generation Z employees who were actively working and had experience using AI, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using the General Attitudes toward Artificial Intelligence Scale (GAAIS) and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES). Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between the variables. The results revealed no significant relationship between general attitudes toward AI and work engagement among Generation Z (r = .056, p = .575, 
p > .05). The relationship between the two variables was categorized as very weak. These findings indicate that general attitudes toward AI do not necessarily influence individuals' levels of work engagement. The findings further imply that efforts to enhance work engagement should consider factors beyond general attitudes toward AI, including aspects related to employees' work experiences and work environment.