The Age of Anxiety: Unpacking Technological Job Insecurity and Its Impact on Workplace Innovation

As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and Deep Seek are reshaping workplaces, sparking widespread fears of job displacement among employees. This phenomenon, termed Technological Job Insecurity (TJI), goes beyond concerns of machines replacing human roles—it encompasses anxieties about being outperformed by colleagues better equipped to navigate the digital age. While innovation remains critical in such challenging times, the psychological toll of TJI often dampens employees’ ability to think creatively and contribute new ideas. Drawing on Conservation of Resources (COR) Theory, this study examines how TJI erodes innovation performance by draining employees’ psychological resilience and resources. We identify Self-care Self-Efficacy (SCSE)—the ability to manage the impact of digital stress—as a vital mechanism that mitigates this negative effect, offering pathways for resource recovery and renewed focus. Additionally, we explore how Workplace Literacy Facilitation (WLF)—organizational strategies like proactive training and robust technical support—buffers the impact of TJI, creating environments where employees can thrive despite technological uncertainties. Findings from diverse industries provide insights into the interplay between fear, resilience, and innovation, urging organizations to prioritize both psychological well-being and collective support in the age of automation.