Job demands-resources on digital gig platforms and counterproductive work behavior

Introduction With the rapid expansion of digital gig platforms, counterproductive work behavior among gig workers has become increasingly prominent, adversely impacting the platform's reputation, operational efficiency, and user experience. This study aims to explore how job demands and job resources influence counterproductive work behavior among gig workers.Methods Grounded in the Job Demands-Resources model and Job Engagement Theory, this study develops a second-order chain mediation structural model to analyze the effects of job demands (Work pace/workload, physical demands, psychological demands, and customer-related social stressors) and job resources (Compensation, job security, learning opportunities, and opportunities for professional development) on counterproductive work behavior. Cognitive, emotional, and behavioral engagement are also examined as mediators.Results Job demands positively influence counterproductive work behavior, while job resources have a negative impact. Cognitive, emotional, and behavioral engagement each negatively affect counterproductive work behavior. Additionally, platform formalization moderates the negative influence of gig workers' engagement on counterproductive work behavior.Discussion This research provides a comprehensive theoretical framework for digital gig platform managers to understand and predict gig workers' counterproductive work behavior. It also offers practical implications for optimizing the work environment, enhancing job engagement, and mitigating counterproductive work behavior, thus fostering mutual development between gig workers and the platform.