Compulsory citizenship behavior of food delivery riders under algorithmic management: a resource perspective

Purpose This study aims to examine how perceived algorithmic control (PAC) influences compulsory citizenship behavior (CCB) among gig workers, with a focus on the mediating role of organizational dehumanization and the moderating role of prosocial motivation. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, this study conducted a two-wave time-lagged survey of 214 food delivery couriers in China. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypothesized mediation and moderation effects. Findings Results showed that PAC was positively associated with CCB through the mediating effect of organizational dehumanization. Furthermore, this indirect relationship was stronger for workers with lower levels of prosocial motivation, indicating a significant moderated mediation effect. Originality/value This research offers novel theoretical insights by applying COR theory to explain how perceived algorithmic control can undermine worker self-worth and foster compulsory citizenship behavior through organizational dehumanization. It extends prior literature by demonstrating a moderated mediation mechanism rarely examined in gig economy contexts.