|
|
|
| A Mixed-Methods Study on the Causes and Alleviation Strategies of Gig Workers’ Loneliness and Powerlessness |
| LIANG Xiaojie，CAO Jianing，YU Guilan |
| 1.Capital University of Economics and Business, Beijing, China; 2. Jilin University, Changchun, China |
|
|
|
|
Abstract Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, this study explores the causes, effects, and alleviation strategies of loneliness and powerlessness among gig workers. First, based on the job characteristics model, we conducted qualitative research to uncover the reasons behind gig workers’ feelings of loneliness and powerlessness, as well as strategies to alleviate them. The study found that a threefold isolation—spatial, emotional, and algorithmic—is the deep-seated cause leading to gig workers’ loneliness and powerlessness, which further triggers their job burnout. Joining WeChat groups and establishing “weak ties” are effective ways for gig workers to mitigate these issues. Second, based on three-stage data from 304 gig workers, we conducted quantitative research to further examine the relationships among online community interaction, loneliness, powerlessness, and job burnout. The results show that online community interaction can significantly alleviate gig workers’ feelings of loneliness and powerlessness; and via their mediating effects, reduce their job burnout.
|
|
Received: 28 March 2024
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
