Dual-path mechanism of AI awareness on employee job crafting: insights from the cognitive appraisal of stress and JD-R perspective

As artificial intelligence (AI) adoption expands across industries, employees face growing workplace challenges and decisions. Previous studies on AI awareness and employee behavior have typically relied on single theoretical frameworks. By integrating the Job Demands–Resources (JD-R) model with Cognitive Appraisal Theory, this research develops a comprehensive framework explaining how AI awareness influences employee behavior. Survey data from 316 manufacturing employees operating intelligent equipment were analyzed using AMOS 24, SPSS 22, and PROCESS macro (v3.3). Results indicate AI awareness positively impacts both hindrance and challenge appraisals. These appraisals, in turn, exert distinct positive effects on different job crafting behaviors while mediating the relationship between AI awareness and such behaviors. Notably, leader support moderates the mediating roles of both appraisal types. This study offers valuable insights into AI awareness-driven behavioral changes in AI-integrated workplaces and provides actionable managerial guidance for organizations implementing AI technologies.