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Digital transformation, happiness-based leadership and artificial intelligence: rethinking organizational futures through happiness management

Pedro Cuesta-Valiño et al.

Management Research2026https://doi.org/10.1108/mrjiam-07-2025-1792article
AJG 1ABDC C
Weight
0.50

What the paper says

Purpose This study aims to explore the interplay between digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) in well-being, happiness-based leadership, Happiness Management and organizational sustainability. Grounded in transformational leadership theory of bass, it examines how digital tools and emotionally intelligent leadership foster sustainable, happiness-driven workplaces – particularly in the Ibero-American and Spanish context. To strengthen conceptual coherence, the study also clarifies the transition from theoretical foundations to the development of the empirical model. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted with 3,728 employees across various sectors in Spain. Data were collected through a 17-item questionnaire using validated Likert-scale constructs. Partial least squares structural equation modeling via SmartPLS 4 was used to test reliability, validity and model fit. Findings All five hypotheses were supported. Digital transformation positively impacts happiness-based leadership, which, in turn, mediates its effect on Happiness Management. AI in well-being significantly predicts both Happiness Management and sustainability. Moreover, Happiness Management is a strong predictor of organizational sustainability. Originality/value This research offers an integrative model linking technology, leadership and employee happiness as drivers of sustainability. It redefines Happiness Management as a measurable strategic capability and positions happiness-based leadership as a vital bridge between AI-driven processes and human-centered workplaces. The study provides practical guidance for organizations aiming to align environmental, social and governance goals with digital innovation and emotional well-being – especially relevant in Ibero-American settings where human-centered and ethical management models are increasingly essential.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1108/mrjiam-07-2025-1792

Or copy a formatted citation

@article{pedro2026,
  title        = {{Digital transformation, happiness-based leadership and artificial intelligence: rethinking organizational futures through happiness management}},
  author       = {Pedro Cuesta-Valiño et al.},
  journal      = {Management Research},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1108/mrjiam-07-2025-1792},
}

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.