09/29/2025

The Hidden Anxiety Curve of Generative AI in Associations

Initial skepticism has giving rise to more skepticism

Generative AI burst onto the scene with enormous promise, hailed as the next wave of innovation poised to transform how associations serve members, engage volunteers and streamline operations. Association leaders were intrigued by the opportunities AI offered: smarter member services, content generation, automated workflows and better data insights. But beneath this promise, a subtle yet powerful undercurrent is forming — one that association executives must not ignore: growing anxiety among staff, volunteers and even members.

Traditional tech adoption usually follows a familiar arc. Early skepticism gives way to tentative use, then growing confidence and finally widespread adoption. But generative AI introduces a twist. Initially, users may hesitate or fear the unknown. But oddly, once they begin using these tools and experience some success, their anxiety doesn’t disappear. In fact, for many, it intensifies, according to research by i4cp.

This unusual trajectory — a U-shaped anxiety curve — is uniquely tied to generative AI. For association executives, understanding this emotional arc is not just a matter of employee satisfaction. It is critical to member experience, volunteer retention and the long-term health of your association’s internal culture.

Please select this link to read the complete article from ASAE’s Center for Association Leadership.