Rapid technological advances are profoundly changing the world of work. The introduction of automation technologies in the workplace has complex direct and indirect impacts on work activities and the wellbeing of workers. In this paper, we conduct a comprehensive review of the emerging literature on the impact of new automation technologies on workers’ subjective wellbeing. We specifically examine the evidence on (i) automation risk, (ii) the expectations and fears surrounding automation and (iii) the adoption of automation technologies, and how they can influence workers’ job satisfaction and life satisfaction.

Taken together, the findings from this literature are mixed and largely depend on the type of technology examined. Studies reveal great variation in the impacts across different occupations and industries. While many studies focus on investigating negative consequences of automation technologies, our review suggests that there is potential for both positive and negative effects on wellbeing to coexist. As much remains unknown, we identify possible avenues for future research to further explore this complex relationship, notably, the need for a broader, more holistic approach to the assessment of both risks and impacts to ensure successful adoption from the perspective of enhancement of worker wellbeing.