Unequal gigs: developing a scale to measure socio-economic disparities among gig workers

The study aims to develop and validate a scale to measure socio-economic disparities among gig workers, focusing on key dimensions such as income stability, job security and benefits, work flexibility, and career progression and skills development. A mixed-method approach was adopted, involving interviews with gig workers to identify socio-economic constructs and generate an initial item pool. The pilot study was conducted with 50 participants, followed by a larger survey of 400 gig workers. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used to refine and validate the scale. The analysis identified a 30-item scale comprising four factors: income stability, job security and benefits, work flexibility, and career progression and skills development. The model exhibited a good fit, with significant relationships among the factors. The scale demonstrated strong reliability and validity. This scale can be used to assess the socio-economic challenges faced by gig workers, providing a tool for future research and policy-making aimed at addressing the disparities within the gig economy. It offers insights into income volatility, lack of benefits, and limited career advancement, especially among low-skilled workers. The study contributes to the growing literature on the gig economy by developing the first comprehensive tool to measure socio-economic inequalities specific to gig work, considering its unique structure and challenges.