Global patterns in workplace incivility research: a bibliometric analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study is to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of workplace incivility research spanning from 1999 to 2023, examining publication trends, intellectual structure, and global collaboration patterns to synthesize fragmented knowledge and identify future research directions. Design/methodology/approach This study used the Bibliometrix R-package to analyze 1,322 publications from Scopus and Web of Science databases. It used descriptive analysis and network analysis to examine the field’s evolution. Findings The analysis revealed significant growth in workplace incivility research, particularly after 2008. Key themes included customer incivility, emotional exhaustion and job satisfaction. The USA led in research output, with strong international collaborations. The intellectual structure comprised four main clusters, reflecting the field’s multidisciplinary nature. Research limitations/implications Limitations included potential bias toward English-language publications and reliance on citation metrics. This study highlighted opportunities for more diverse international collaborations and suggested focusing on long-term effects, evidence-based interventions and technology-mediated incivility in future research. Originality/value This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of workplace incivility research from two major databases (Scopus and Web of Science), offering a holistic view of the field’s development and identifying critical knowledge gaps to inform future research directions.