How algorithmic management affects the work-family interface: A dual-process and dissipative structure perspective

Abstract: Algorithmic management has become the primary management model for the gig economy and platform work. Its “rush-games-style” management traps gig workers in an intense and unstable work rhythm, which exacerbates the tension between work and family, and triggers the dilemma of blurring of the work-family interface for gig workers. How to balance work and family has become an important issue of common concern to both managers and gig workers. Based on the dual-process model and dissipative structure theory, this study constructs a moderated mediation model of the impact of algorithmic management on the work-family interface. Specifically, Study 1 relies on the dissipative structural characteristics of the human brain and constructs a linear impact model of algorithmic management on work-family facilitation from the perspective of System 1; Study 2 draws on the dissipative structural characteristics of the individual and constructs a nonlinear impact model of algorithmic management on work-family conflict from the perspective of System 2. The anticipated findings can provide an appropriate theoretical perspective for explaining the impact of algorithmic management on the work-family interface, and offer suggestions for improving gig platforms’ algorithmic management capabilities and helping gig workers better balance work and family relationships.