Anthropomorphising the Algorithm: A ‘Theory of Mind’ Perspective on Psychological Contract Creation in Gig Work Arrangements

Algorithms increasingly manage the exchange between workers and organisations. This raises the question of whether agency can be attributed to, and psychological contracts formed with, such non-human organisational representatives. Against this backdrop, we assemble and critically review streams of literature regarding app working and psychological contract making to better understand the psychological dynamics of app-work. We show how such non-human entities are commonly ascribed traits and intentions characteristic of a human agent, which foster positive emotions and relationship continuity for app-workers. To theoretically explain the mechanisms at play in how app-workers may create a psychological contract with an algorithm, we curate ideas from ‘Theory of Mind’ which accounts for key aspects of relationship development through direct experience with a target party. Our work unpacks the experiences of app-workers and underscores the expanding role of the HR function in managing such independent contractors, along with the evolving means by which this can be achieved. Arising from our review, we set down key implications for the role of algorithmic agents in the design of work and the management practice of HR professionals.