Impact of quality of work life’s dimensions on turnover intention: A systematic literature review

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to review the empirical literature on the relationship between quality of work life (QWL) and turnover intention, by providing current evidence of the QWL variables that may affect employees’ turnover intention, since recent research has developed new and contemporary variables. We adopt a systematic literature review of papers published between 2007 and 2020 dealing with this issue, based on the guidelines presented by Kitchenham et al. (2009). After reviewing 30 papers from recent literature, this paper identifies four major factors and lists 42 variables of the QWL that may induce a turnover intention. The results show that employees are more affected by organizational and work-related factors than psychological and environmental factors. Also, we find that the variables that most affect employee turnover intention are "Work / life balance" and "Developmental Opportunities". We provide essential recommendations and guidelines for future research by drawing up an updated framework of the relationship between QWL and turnover intention.