Yawen Cheng , Wan-Ju Cheng , Ro-Ting Lin , Yi-Ting Wang , Jyh-Jer Roger Ko
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background
Platform work offers flexibility and autonomy to workers, but there are concerns about the impacts of excessive labor control exercised by digital platforms using algorithmic management. This study assessed the level of labor control exerted by digital platforms and explored its associations with psychosocial work conditions and workers' mental well-being.
Methods
A total of 487 location-based platform workers in Taiwan, encompassing ride-hailing, delivery, and house chore services, participated in this questionnaire survey. A 5-item scale was created to assess platform-mediated labor control. Psychosocial work conditions, including demands, job control, work rewards, and mental well-being, including burnout and self-rated mental health status, were assessed using validated instruments. Cronbach's α and principal component analysis were employed to assess the validity of the labor control scale. Logistic regression analysis and path analysis were conducted to investigate the relationship between labor control and workers' mental health.
Results
Exploratory factor analyses confirmed the structural validity and the internal consistency of the scale. Logistic regression models revealed that higher levels of labor control were associated with an increased risk of burnout and poorer mental health. Path analyses further indicated that higher labor control through digital platforms raised mental health risks by increasing job demands.
Conclusion
Algorithmic management is associated with increased stress among platform workers as they try to meet the platform's performance metrics.
期刊介绍：
Safety and Health at Work (SH@W) is an international, peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary journal published quarterly in English beginning in 2010. The journal is aimed at providing grounds for the exchange of ideas and data developed through research experience in the broad field of occupational health and safety. Articles may deal with scientific research to improve workers'' health and safety by eliminating occupational accidents and diseases, pursuing a better working life, and creating a safe and comfortable working environment. The journal focuses primarily on original articles across the whole scope of occupational health and safety, but also welcomes up-to-date review papers and short communications and commentaries on urgent issues and case studies on unique epidemiological survey, methods of accident investigation, and analysis. High priority will be given to articles on occupational epidemiology, medicine, hygiene, toxicology, nursing and health services, work safety, ergonomics, work organization, engineering of safety (mechanical, electrical, chemical, and construction), safety management and policy, and studies related to economic evaluation and its social policy and organizational aspects. Its abbreviated title is Saf Health Work.
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