Employee Retention Dynamics: A Systematic Review Mapping the Knowledge Evolution of Embeddedness Theory in Human Resource Management (1995–2025)

Employee retention remains a critical challenge in human resource management (HRM). Embeddedness theory offers a vital framework to understand retention dynamics, yet its development within HRM lacks systematic mapping. This study systematically examines the intellectual evolution, thematic clusters, and emerging trends of embeddedness theory in HRM from 1995 to 2025, addressing three research questions: (1) How has the theory developed over time? (2) What are the key research themes and conceptual structures? (3) Which emerging trends can inform future HRM practice? A bibliometric and science mapping analysis was conducted on 562 peer-reviewed articles from Web of Science using co-citation, co-word clustering, and keyword evolution techniques. Three distinct phases were identified: formative (1995–2005), expansion (2006–2015), and maturation (2016–2025). Findings reveal a dual focus on micro-level constructs, including job satisfaction and turnover intention, and macro-level themes, such as organizational commitment and performance. Recent trends highlight organizational and institutional contexts, cross-cultural perspectives, and post-pandemic dynamics. The study provides the first comprehensive longitudinal mapping of embeddedness theory in HRM, clarifying its intellectual structure, key contributors, and evolving research frontiers. These insights offer actionable guidance for scholars and practitioners, emphasizing the integration of multi-level and contextual factors to enhance employee retention in increasingly complex and globalized work environments.