Happiness at work: a systematic literature review

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to systematically review the literature on happiness at work (HAW) by analysing existing studies, identifying relevant themes in HAW research and evaluating the methodologies used in the literature. Design/methodology/approach The study used a systematic review process, following the guidelines and principles outlined in the updated Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement 2020 and checklist. Articles were collected from six databases: Emerald insight, Taylor & Francis Online, Science Direct, Wiley Online Library, Springer and MDPI. Subsequently, systematic review was performed on 41 HAW articles published in 29 different journals between 2010 and 2022. The authors only considered articles that were either indexed by Scopus or in the Academic Journal Guide (AJG) list. Findings The study identified six major themes, assessed the operationalisation of HAW and analysed the research methodologies and statistical tools used in the sample studies. Majority of the articles discussed the antecedents of HAW followed by the HAW as a mediator. There is a high heterogeneity in the operationalisation of HAW in the reviewed articles. Moreover, majority of the studies have prioritised service sectors over the industrial sectors. Originality/value This study represents the first comprehensive review of the existing literature on HAW by using a systematic review methodology.