Personality Correlates of AI Anxiety and Adoption of AI Tools among Working Adults

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into workplaces, yet individual’s psychological responses, particularly AI-anxiety, influence its adoption. Personality traits may shape these responses, but empirical evidence linking the Big Five traits to AI anxiety and adoption remains limited. This study examined the relationships between core personality traits, AI anxiety, and the adoption of AI tools among working adults. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 400 working adults from Delhi NCR, India (Mean age = 40.44, SD = 10.64). Personality traits were measured using the NEO Five-Factor Inventory, AI anxiety was assessed using a six-item scale, and AI adoption was measured via breadth and frequency indices. Multiple linear regression analyses evaluated the predictive effects of personality traits on AI anxiety and AI adoption, controlling for age, gender, education, and occupational role. Neuroticism positively predicted AI anxiety (β = .53, p < .001), while openness (β = –.27, p < .001), conscientiousness (β = –.21, p < .001), and agreeableness (β = –.08, p = .035) negatively predicted anxiety. Openness significantly predicted both AI adoption breadth (β = .26, p < .001) and frequency (β = .29, p < .001), whereas AI anxiety was a strong negative predictor for both outcomes (β_breadth = –.35, p < .001; β_frequency = –.41, p < .001). Other personality traits and demographics were nonsignificant predictors of adoption. Personality traits, particularly neuroticism and openness, significantly influence anxiety toward AI, which in turn affects AI adoption behaviour. Such studies reveal crucial predictors of technology use through affect reactions and suggest interventions for anxiety and openness for greater use of AI in the workplace.