Objectives: The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in workplace environments has transformed job structures, automated tasks, and altered employees' work experiences. This study aimed to examine the relationship between employees' attitudes toward AI and occupational depression, with the mediating roles of perceived job insecurity and perceived job fit.
Methods: In this descriptive–correlational study, 261 employees of the Telecommunication Company of Kerman Province, Iran, were selected using convenience sampling and completed the Schepman & Rodwav (2020) Attitudes Toward Artificial Intelligence Scale, Nassasira (2020) Job Insecurity Questionnaire, Shafi Abadi and Rezaei (1997) Occupational Self-Concept Questionnaire, and Bianchi and Schonfeld (2020) Occupational Depression Inventory. The conceptual model was tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling.
Results: Positive attitudes toward AI were associated with a significant reduction in occupational depression (b = -0.12, P = 0.038), decreased job insecurity (b = -0.501, P < 0.001), and increased job fit (b = 0.471, P < 0.001). Job insecurity showed a positive relationship with occupational depression (b = 0.417, P < 0.001), whereas job fit showed a negative relationship (b = -0.243, P < 0.001). Job insecurity (b = -0.209, P < 0.001) and job fit (b = -0.114, P = 0.002) mediated the relationship between attitudes toward AI and occupational depression.
Conclusion: A positive attitude toward AI reduces occupational depression by decreasing job insecurity and increasing job fit. These findings highlight the importance of fostering positive attitudes toward AI through training, role redesign, and transparent communication within organizations to strengthen employees' psychological security and perceived job fit.
