Quiet quitting: a bibliometric analysis and future research directions

Abstract

Purpose In this bibliometric study, we conducted a comprehensive literature analysis of the emerging concept of quiet quitting (QQ) to explore its origins, examine the theoretical underpinnings and central debates and identify future research directions considering the theory, context, characteristics and methodology (TCCM) framework. Design/Methodology/Approach The Scopus database was used for data extraction. Further, VOSviewer software was used for bibliometric mapping and visualisation. The process of the scientific procedures and rationales for the systematic literature review (SPAR-4-SLR) protocol is used for screening papers, and the Bibliometric Analysis and the TCCM Framework are utilised to interpret the 58 documents in the period from 2022 to August 2025. Findings The research demonstrates a sudden increase in QQ research, with publications accelerating significantly since 2022. Furthermore, most studies are concentrated in the hospitality and service-oriented journals. The bibliographic coupling and keyword co-occurrence analysis have revealed three major themes, in which QQ is a multifaceted phenomenon driven by relational, social and psychological factors that indicate the need for holistic organisational strategies to address and reduce disengagement. Additionally, we can report the paradigm shift that may have occurred, from conceptual exploration (2022–2023) to theoretical integration and empirical testing (2024–2025) and maturation of research. The thematic analysis and the TCCM framework also identify an important future research agenda for the more diversified contexts, strong theory-building and empirical innovation. Research limitations/implications The analysis was based only on Scopus data, and not all the publications were analysed, which may have come from other sources of databases such as Web of Science. Practical implications This study enriches existing reviews and is an attempt to interpret and suggest a direction for future research through the TCCM framework. To counter silent resignation, organisations need to strengthen psychological contract fulfilment, recognition of efforts and trust-based transparent communication. Building open communication climates, enacting feedback systems and promoting inclusive knowledge practices can help prevent QQ. Originality/Value This study offers the first structured mapping of QQ research, contributing both to academic rigour and practical insight into evolving work behaviour.