Xian Zhao
Papers
2
Total Citations
23
H-Index
1
About
Xian Zhao investigates the psychological and social dynamics of human-robot interaction, with a particular focus on how perceptions of robotic performance shape workplace attitudes and public acceptance of emerging technologies. Their research reveals that when people perceive robots as outperforming human colleagues, it triggers damaging intergroup comparisons that erode organizational commitment and job satisfaction—a finding with profound implications for the future of work. Zhao’s work on the “fear of innovation” in robotic surgery (22 citations) demonstrates how public skepticism can hinder the adoption of life-saving medical technologies. By bridging social identity theory with human-robot interaction, Zhao provides critical insights into the psychological barriers that must be addressed as automation becomes increasingly integrated into professional and medical settings. Their experiments with college students offer controlled evidence of how status comparisons with robotic coworkers can undermine workplace morale, making their research essential reading for organizational psychologists, technology developers, and policymakers navigating the challenges of human-automation collaboration.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Fear of innovation: public’s perception of robotic surgery22 citations · 2022
- 2