This study examines the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption on eliciting employees’ proactive pursuit of occupational self-actualization and subsequent turnover intention. Drawing on protection motivation theory, we developed a research model to elucidate that AI adoption in the workplace would stimulate employees’ need for occupational self-actualization, which, in turn, triggers their turnover intention. A three-wave field survey supported our model. The findings revealed the invigorating, yet previously overlooked role of AI adoption in inspiring employees’ enthusiasm for the pursuit of occupational self-worth, although accompanied by potential costs to organizations in the form of increased employee turnover intention. Moreover, our findings suggested that perceived career prospects can mitigate the positive impact of AI-induced need for occupational self-actualization on turnover intention, providing opportunities for organizations to retain talents. In general, this study expands our understanding of the impact of AI on employees’ workplace experiences and offers practical insights for workplace management in the digital era.
