Mapping the field of workplace deviant behavior: a comprehensive bibliometric analysis

Purpose This study aims to conduct a rigorous bibliometric analysis of workplace deviant behavior (WDB) to identify prevailing trends, patterns, and themes in the field. The analysis seeks to outline the domain's intellectual and social structure and provide a research roadmap. Design/methodology/approach The study employed a systematic procedure to scrutinize research scenario. A search in the Scopus database produced 1,677 papers from reputable publications spanning 42 years (1976-2023). Science mapping techniques, including co-citation, co-authorship, and co-occurrence analysis, were used to obtain insights into the research landscape. By implementing these techniques, the authors comprehensively understood the interconnectedness and patterns within the research field. Findings This study demonstrates an apparent surge in the overall number and impact of studies conducted on WDB, most of which are published in prestigious publications. Furthermore, the findings support Bradford's law, defying Lotka's law in this field. Through co-citation analysis, four clusters were identified in this area. Subsequently, co-occurrence was used to pinpoint several strong themes. Finally, the authors of the USA and China demonstrated the most significant collaboration. Originality/value This study is a pioneering approach to applying bibliometric analysis to explore WDB research; it addresses a gap in the comprehensive review of earlier research and contributes to enriching the body of knowledge in this area. The results of this research are helpful for practitioners, scholars and future researchers in this subject, even if it has its roots in scientometrics.