How Does Algorithmic Control Affect the Work Engagement of Gig Workers? The Role of Perceived Algorithmic Fairness and Psychological Contract

ABSTRACT With the rise of digital platforms, gig workers face engagement challenges under algorithmic management. This study examines how algorithmic control impacts gig workers' engagement, focusing on psychological contracts and algorithmic fairness. A three‐wave survey of 328 gig workers in China examined the effects of algorithmic control dimensions on psychological contracts and engagement. The findings demonstrate that perceived algorithmic control shapes gig workers' engagement through psychological contracts. Standardized guidance fosters relational contracts, thereby enhancing engagement, whereas tracking evaluation and behavioral constraints undermine relational contracts, diminishing engagement. Conversely, all dimensions of algorithmic control strengthen transactional contracts, thereby promoting engagement. Moreover, perceived algorithmic fairness moderates these relationships by amplifying the positive effects of standardized guidance and attenuating the negative impacts of tracking evaluation and behavioral constraints on engagement. The findings offer insights for balancing algorithmic management and humanization, providing strategies to improve gig workers' engagement through effective algorithmic practices.