Mitigating the effect of AI anxiety on employees’ creativity: a social cognitive perspective

Abstract As artificial intelligence (AI) technologies continue to reshape modern workplaces, concerns have emerged about their potential negative impact on employees’ performance and well-being, referred to as “AI anxiety.” Drawing on social cognitive theory, this study examines how environmental factors—in particular, social norms and management commitment—shape employees’ responses to AI anxiety and influence their creativity at work. By exploring different coping responses triggered by AI anxieties, this research highlights the complex interplay between individuals’ perceptions, organizational context, and creative outcomes. The findings expand the current understanding of AI anxiety by illustrating how supportive environmental factors can encourage more adaptive responses, ultimately enhancing employees’ creative potential. These insights not only contribute to the academic literature on AI anxiety but also provide practical guidance for organizations aiming to build resilient and innovative workforces capable of thriving in an era of rapid technological advancement.