Knowledge hiding and knowledge hoarding: A systematic literature review

Abstract

The present study aims to present a consolidated view of the quantitative research on Knowledge Hiding (KHi) and Knowledge Hoarding (Kho), and the relationship with Knowledge Sharing (KS), and propose guidelines for future research. A systematic literature review was adopted, following rigorous procedures. The articles were searched in Scopus, Web of Science, Wiley Online, Science Direct, and Emerald. Fifty different articles were analyzed. The oldest article identified is from 2011. They were published in 33 different journals. Only 16 authors published more than one article on the topic. The four behaviors can be perceived as positive when the individual is committed to the organization and negative when the individual is not committed to the organization. A framework that summarizes the suggestions for future research is presented. Understanding the relationships between KHi and KSc, and between Kho and KSd might facilitate the flow of knowledge in organizations. The paper provides an original contribution by considering KS as two processes, collection and donation, highlighting the oppositional relationship between KHi and KSc, and between KHo and KSd. Furthermore, research gaps and further research lines in the KHi, KHo, and KS area are highlighted.