Mapping Research Trends in Workplace Diversity and Inclusion: A Bibliometric Analysis of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Other Sexual and Gender Minority Workplace Studies

Over the past decade, growing organizational and societal emphasis on diversity, equity, inclusion, and employee wellbeing has stimulated substantial research on workplace diversity and inclusion (D&I), including studies focusing on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other sexual and gender minority (LGBTQ+) employees. Despite this growth, the literature remains fragmented across multiple disciplines, with limited understanding of its intellectual structure, thematic evolution, and emerging research directions. Addressing this gap, this study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of LGBTQ+ workplace diversity and inclusion research published between 2015 and 2025. Bibliographic data were retrieved from the Scopus and Web of Science databases following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A total of 232 peer-reviewed journal articles were analysed using Biblioshiny (Bibliometrix) and VOSviewer. Performance analysis and science mapping techniques were employed to examine publication trends, leading journals, influential authors, productive countries, collaboration networks, thematic development, and keyword co-occurrence. The findings reveal a substantial increase in scholarly output after 2020, reflecting growing academic and organizational interest in LGBTQ+ workplace diversity and inclusion. Research is predominantly concentrated in the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, while contributions from developing countries remain comparatively limited. Thematic analysis demonstrates a conceptual shift from traditional diversity management towards employee-centred perspectives emphasising psychological safety, workplace belonging, inclusive leadership, intersectionality, and employee wellbeing. The study also identifies important research gaps relating to geographical representation and emerging workplace inclusion themes. This study contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive bibliometric mapping of LGBTQ+ workplace diversity and inclusion research, identifying its intellectual structure, thematic evolution, and future research directions. The findings offer valuable insights for researchers, organizational leaders, human resource practitioners, and policymakers seeking to advance evidence-based and inclusive workplace practices.