Threat of technological disruption and turnover intention in Egypt: A moderated mediation model

Abstract

Orientation: Employee perceived threat of technological disruption (PTTD) is an unavoidable consequence of the increasing prevalence of Smart Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Algorithms.

Research purpose: This study examined the relationship between PTTD and turnover intention (TI), the mediating role of job insecurity (JI) in this relationship and the moderating effect of age on JI’s mediating role in the Egyptian private sector.

Motivation for the study: Only a few prior studies have examined the relationship between employee PTTD and TI and/or the mediating role of JI in this context. Further, none of those studies has been conducted in Egypt, and no prior research has inspected the moderating effect of employee demographic characteristics on the mediating role of JI.

Research approach/design and method: Hayes PROCESS Model 14 was used to analyse cross-sectional data obtained from a sample of 348 Egyptian full-time employees working in the Egyptian private sector.

Main findings: Findings revealed a significant positive relationship between PTTD and TI, a significant positive indirect effect of PTTD on TI through JI and that age mitigated the positive indirect effect of PTTD on TI through JI.

Practical/managerial implications: Understanding how PTTD influences TI through JI and the moderating effect of age can help organisations develop targeted interventions to reduce employee concerns about technological disruption and mitigate turnover risk.

Contribution/value-add: This study addressed key knowledge gaps by providing empirical evidence from Egypt, highlighting the mediating role of JI in the PTTD–TI relationship and demonstrating the moderating effect of age on this mediation.