Generative AI and Employee Well-being: An Exploration of Opportunities and Risks from a Human-Centered Perspective.

Details

Supervisors

Aust, Ina

Faculty

Louvain School of Management

Degree label

Master [120] : ingénieur de gestion, à finalité spécialisée

Abstract

enGenerative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is reshaping how employees interact with technology, creating both opportunities and risks for workplace well-being. While interest in GenAI adoption is growing, little is known about how employees themselves perceive its integration and impact on their daily work. This thesis addresses this gap by examining employees’ experiences through the lens of Human-Centered AI (HCAI) principles and the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) model, conceptualizing GenAI as both a job resource and a job demand. An exploratory qualitative approach was applied, based on fifteen semi-structured interviews across diverse sectors and one AI ethics expert. Thematic analysis revealed that employees mainly perceive GenAI as an accessible assistance tool, valued for automating repetitive tasks and supporting creativity and problem-solving. However, concerns emerged regarding overreliance on AI outputs, skill erosion, and a potential loss of meaning in work. Perceptions varied depending on organizational practices, employee readiness, and trust in ethical safeguards such as transparency and inclusive governance. This study contributes to the literature by linking employee well-being models with responsible AI adoption perspectives. It also provides practical guidance for organizations to integrate GenAI in ways that foster well-being through training, clear usage frameworks, and participatory governance.