A new study from Duke University highlights a surprising downside to the growing adoption of artificial intelligence in the workplace. According to the research, using AI can come with a “social penalty.” Employees who rely on AI tools often face negative assumptions from coworkers about their motivation, work ethic, and competence. The impact doesn’t stop there—job candidates who disclose AI use might also be viewed less favorably, as reported by ZDNet.
Despite the clear productivity advantages offered by generative AI tools, many employees remain hesitant to discuss their use. These tools, which can generate emails, write code, and complete various other tasks, can make work easier and faster. However, coworkers may interpret their use as laziness. A previous Slack survey found that many workers hide their use of AI from managers for fear of appearing less competent or hardworking.
Key Findings From the Study
The Duke study involved four experiments and a total of 4,400 participants. It found that employees who use generative AI expect to be judged more harshly than those using non-generative AI, such as systems that monitor or analyze data. These expectations turn out to be accurate: observers consistently rated AI users as less hardworking, less competent, and less independent—even when the AI assistance mirrored what a human coworker might provide.
In hiring scenarios, the pattern persisted. Candidates who disclosed using AI were less likely to be hired—unless the manager evaluating them also used AI tools. This suggests that bias against AI users may stem largely from unfamiliarity or skepticism toward new technologies. We’ll keep you updated as attitudes evolve.
Breaking the Stigma
The so-called “penalty” for using AI appears to lessen when employees clearly explain how the AI supports their work, or when the AI’s contribution is seen as directly beneficial to the task at hand, adds NIX Solutions. Most notably, if a manager also uses AI, they are more likely to view AI-using candidates and employees positively.
The study included people of different genders, ages, and professions, yet all groups shared similar concerns about AI. It seems that while many understand the value AI brings to the workplace, social perceptions continue to hinder its open use. As AI tools become more embedded in daily tasks, shifting workplace culture and manager attitudes may help remove the stigma.