Technophobia and the manager’s intention to adopt generative AI: the impact of self-regulated learning and open organisational culture

Purpose Using the cognitive-affective-normative (CAN) model, this study highlights the role of self-regulated learning (SRL) and organisational culture and delves into the link between technophobia and a manager’s intention to adopt generative artificial intelligence (AI) in management practices. Design/methodology/approach An empirical study was conducted through a survey of 528 business managers from China. Findings The study reveals that technophobia is negatively related to a manager’s intention to adopt generative AI, while SRL is positively related to the intention to adopt generative AI. Moreover, SRL reduces the negative impact of technophobia on AI adoption. Open organisational cultures reduce the need for SRL. Originality/value This study goes beyond a purely technical perspective towards a “human-side” view on understanding managers’ adoption of generative AI. This study is an early attempt to apply the CAN model to analysing the connection between technophobia, SRL, organisational culture and the intention to adopt generative AI.