Cyberloafing, Current Development and Future Research: A Systematic Literature Review

Background: The increasing digitalisation of the workplace has further intensified scholarly interest in Cyberloafing, defined as the use of non-work-related electronic devices at work, which has become a growing concern. However, the existing literature is fragmented and requires consolidation to provide a comprehensive and contemporary overview of cyberloafing research while mapping its intellectual boundaries. Objectives: This paper aims to address the gap by conducting a systematic literature review on cyberloafing, also known as cyberslacking, in the workplace. Methodology: This systematic review, conducted using the PRISMA protocol, examines 73 articles to identify key actors, theoretical frameworks employed, and methodological trends in the field's established aspects. The data were gathered from eligible articles published in Tier 1 journals between 2015 and 2022. Keywords used in the selection process included cyberloafing, personal web usage, cyberslacking, and work deviance. Result: This review highlights key gaps in cyberloafing research, emphasising the need for more qualitative studies to explore individual experiences, motivations, and cultural perceptions beyond the dominant regions, as well as for broader theoretical frameworks beyond the commonly used Theory of Planned Behaviour. Conclusion: While cyberloafing research has evolved through different stages, it remains an emerging and challenging field due to the many evolving issues surrounding it. Unique Contribution: This literature study is unique because it employs two approaches: the PRISMA method and Watase, an analysis system developed by lecturers that is combined to provide a detailed examination of the literature. This unique methodological approach and meta-analytic insights help move the cyberloafing discourse forward. Key Recommendation: Future studies could explore alternative theoretical frameworks to provide deeper insights into the phenomenon. Additionally, this study is primarily focused on theoretical findings and does not extensively address practical implications.