How challenge stressors affect deviant innovation behavior among Chinese frontline textile workers in the age of artificial intelligence

Abstract

Abstract Previous research has examined the impact of internal organizational stress on employee innovation behavior, but recent research has not thoroughly examined whether artificial intelligence can aid frontline workers in innovating beyond their workflow. This study explores the impact of challenge stressors on deviant innovation behavior among employees of a textile mill based on the conservation of resources theory. This empirical study surveyed a sample of 400 frontline employees of a textile mill in China. Results revealed that challenge stressors significantly positively impact employees’ deviant innovation behavior, and that psychological empowerment mediates their relationship. In addition, satisfaction with human–robot collaboration moderates the relationship between challenge stressors and deviant innovation behavior. Higher satisfaction can enhance employees’ willingness to engage in innovative behaviors, even in the presence of challenge stressors, while lower satisfaction may hinder such behaviors. These findings offer new insights into how stressors affect employees’ deviant innovation behavior and provide valuable guidance for human resource management practices.