Human-Centered AI Adoption in Knowledge Work: A PRISMA-ScR Scoping Review of Technostress, Trust, Autonomy, and Employee Well-Being

Abstract

Introduction: Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming part of everyday knowledge work through generative AI, decision-support systems, algorithmic management, and AI-enabled organizational information systems. This development raises a central question: when does AI support employees, and when does it become a source of technostress, surveillance, uncertainty, and reduced autonomy? Objectives: This PRISMA-ScR scoping review mapped evidence on human-centered AI adoption in knowledge-intensive work and examined links with technostress, trust, autonomy, and employee well-being. Methods: Using a population–concept–context approach, we included peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers addressing AI adoption in knowledge-work settings and at least one human-centered or employee-related outcome. Publicly accessible databases and public metadata records were searched across Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, ScienceDirect, PubMed/MEDLINE, Business Source Complete, and APA PsycINFO. Searches were conducted in March 2026 and verified between 1 and 15 April 2026. Results: Twenty-six sources were included, comprising 17 journal articles and 9 peer-reviewed conference/proceedings sources. Five evidence clusters were identified: AI as a resource-demand system, information-system properties, generative AI work redesign, organizational implementation conditions, and short- versus long-term employee outcomes. Conclusions: Human-centered AI adoption in knowledge work requires transparent system design, organizational governance, employee participation, and long-term monitoring. The review contributes a business informatics implementation framework for trustworthy, ethically governed, and well-being-oriented AI use.