Between technophilia and technophobia – the problem of technological fear

Purpose:The aim of the article is to systematize knowledge about technological anxiety and to get to know the opinion of the management staff on the manifestations and potential effects of this phenomenon.Design/methodology/approach: A critical literature analysis and qualitative research (FGI) was used as the research method.Findings: Technological anxiety is a real problem in companies implementing solutions typical for industry 4.0.It mainly affects employees in the 55+ age group.It generates negative attitudes towards changes, in particular towards acquiring new competences necessary to work in the conditions of the digital economy.Em-ployees experiencing technological anxiety rationalize it by exaggerating the potential negative effects of technological changes.Technophobia has social and health consequences for the workers it affects.From the perspective of the company, it is a psycho-social barrier to the implementation of the concept of industry 4.0.Research limitations/implications: Conceptualization of the problem of technological anxiety may contribute to the development of research methodology on this issue, and, as a result, to its in-depth empirical diagnosis in the form of quantitative research.Practical implications: Understanding the problem of a technological drug can help improve the work comfort of employees who are affected by it.Originality/value: The text contains original own research.It is an attempt to conceptualize the problem of technological anxiety.It can contribute to the development of methodology for in-depth research on this issue and recommendations for management practice.