Work Locus of Control as a Predictor of Attitudes Toward Artificial Intelligence

While many external factors can influence workplace acceptance of artificial intelligence (AI), one’s personal sense of control over job success and advancement may also play a salient role. This study sought to explore the relationship between work locus of control (WLC) and attitudes toward and motivation to use AI in a sample of 82 faculty, clinical instructors, and staff in a college of health and behavioral sciences. Multivariate multiple regression analyses suggest external work locus of control is predictive of negative or fearful attitudes toward AI. While WLC was not predictive of positive or enthusiastic views of AI, results suggest that participants with higher internal WLC may be more likely to find AI enjoyable or interesting. Results from this study provide valuable insights into psychological factors that may influence employee openness to AI technology.