APS
2026 APS Annual Convention · 2026
Beyond Performance: AI May Reduce Feelings of Meaning and Ownership at Work
- Zulma Lopez-Rodriguez
California State University, Northridge - Nargiz Alakbarli
California State University Northridge - Cole Parkin
California State University Northridge - John Walkiewicz
California State University, Northridge - Abraham Rutchick
California State University, Northridge
Abstract
This study tested how AI-assisted versus manual task completion affects perceived meaning at work. Among 408 participants, AI use reduced perceived meaning and psychological ownership. High job satisfaction buffered these effects, suggesting that less satisfied workers experience the greatest negative impact of AI on their work experience.
