Knowledge Workers’ Attitudes Towards Generative Artificial Intelligence and their Influence on Digital Self-Efficacy

Abstract

This quantitative cross-sectional study targeted Chinese industrial knowledge workers to explore the predictive relationship between generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) attitudes, creative problem-solving, and digital self-efficacy. Questionnaire survey was adopted, with a final valid sample of 394 respondents. Attitudes toward GenAI, constructed as a higher-order factor covering three dimensions (Benefits of AI, reverse-scored Risks of AI, and Use of AI), together with two reflective latent variables—creative problem-solving and digital self-efficacy—were measured via validated scales. Descriptive statistics and Spearman rank-order correlation analysis were applied for data processing. Descriptive results showed the composite mean score of Benefits of AI was 3.75, reverse-scored Risks of AI reached 3.79, and Use of AI scored 3.79. The average value of creative problem-solving was 3.77, while digital self-efficacy had a mean of 3.78. At the item level, participants generally agreed with statements describing AI benefits and practical usage, and reported strong self-confidence across all digital self-efficacy items. Meanwhile, respondents mostly disagreed with the original negatively framed items about AI potential hazards. Spearman correlation test further demonstrated significant positive correlations between GenAI attitudes, creative problem-solving, and digital self-efficacy. This research supplements empirical evidence focusing on Chinese knowledge workers, and provides practical references for enterprises to develop targeted AI literacy training and boost employees’ digital competence.