Women are more likely than men to perceive artificial intelligence (AI) as risky, according to a peer-reviewed study published in PNAS Nexus. Researchers say the gap is driven by a combination of greater risk aversion and higher exposure to potential AI-related disruptions, particularly in the workplace.
The study, led by Beatrice Magistro of Northeastern University, surveyed nearly 3,000 respondents across the United States and Canada in November 2023 to better understand public perceptions of generative AI.
Participants were asked whether they believed the risks of generative AI outweigh its benefits, rating their views on a scale of one to ten. Men reported an average score of 4.38, while women scored 4.87—about 11 per cent higher, indicating greater concern among women.
Women Show Higher General Risk Aversion
To explore whether broader attitudes toward risk played a role, researchers included lottery-style decision-making questions in the survey. These tested whether participants preferred a guaranteed smaller reward or a riskier chance at a larger payoff.
Across these scenarios, women consistently chose the safer options, confirming higher levels of overall risk aversion compared to men. The researchers suggest this general tendency may influence how women evaluate emerging technologies like AI.
Greater Exposure to AI Disruption
The study also examined personal exposure to AI risks, using education levels and job types as indicators. The findings showed that women are more likely to work in roles vulnerable to automation or rapid technological change, such as administrative, service, and support positions.
This heightened exposure to potential job displacement or restructuring may help explain why women express greater caution toward AI adoption.
Mixed Views on AI Benefits
When asked open-ended questions about the benefits of AI, women were more likely to express uncertainty or skepticism, often saying they saw limited advantages or were unsure how AI would improve their lives.
However, the study found a key nuance: when researchers presented clear, concrete scenarios where AI adoption directly benefited employees—such as improving working conditions or reducing workload—women supported AI use almost as strongly as men.
Policy Implications and Gender Concerns
The authors argue that the findings highlight the importance of gender-responsive AI policymaking. Without careful planning, they warn, AI technologies risk deepening existing inequalities or sparking broader resistance among groups that feel disproportionately threatened.
“Addressing gender-specific concerns around job security, fairness, and transparency could be crucial for building trust in AI,” the researchers note, adding that inclusive design and labour protections may help narrow the perception gap.