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A meta-analysis of knowledge hiding behavior in organizations: Antecedents, consequences, and boundary conditions

Author

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  • Shen, Yang
  • Lythreatis, Sophie
  • Singh, Sanjay Kumar
  • Cooke, Fang Lee

Abstract

In this meta-analysis study, we propose a comprehensive framework for investigating the factors related to knowledge-hiding (KH) behavior, and the boundary conditions in those different relationships. These factors include human resource (HR) practices, leadership, and personality traits that lead to KH behavior, as well as two types of consequences: psychological and behavioral outcomes, and performance-related outcomes. With 267 independent samples from 248 primary studies, we conducted meta-analytic correlations, relative weight analysis, meta-regression analyses, and meta-subgroup analyses. Results indicate significant relationships between HR practices, leadership styles, personality traits and KH. KH was found to significantly impact psychological and behavioral outcomes, as well as performance-related outcomes. We further examined the moderating roles of demographic and contextual factors on KH and its antecedents, as well as methodological factors on the relationship between KH and its consequences. We discussed the implications and future directions.

Suggested Citation

  • Shen, Yang & Lythreatis, Sophie & Singh, Sanjay Kumar & Cooke, Fang Lee, 2025. "A meta-analysis of knowledge hiding behavior in organizations: Antecedents, consequences, and boundary conditions," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 186(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jbrese:v:186:y:2025:i:c:s0148296324004673
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jbusres.2024.114963
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