The Evolution of Theoretical Models of Employee Engagement: from Instrumental Effectiveness to a Holistic Psychological Well-Being Approach
Volume 49, Issue 2 (2026), pp. 181–192
Pub. online: 2 July 2026
Type: Article
Open Access
Open Access
Published
2 July 2026
2 July 2026
Abstract
Although employee engagement has dominated management practice for several decades, the scientific discussion still encounters
the fragmentation of the construct. This article examines the transformation of the concept of employee engagement, from early
notions of organisational effectiveness to modern complex multi-dimensional constructs. A systematic analysis of scientific sources
revealed that the concept of engagement has evolved from a limited, results-oriented approach to a holistic (full engagement) model.
The review highlights fundamental theoretical frameworks, including the job demands-resources model, social exchange theory,
and the caring human resource management approach. The lack of consensus indicates the complexity of the phenomenon under
investigation, and contemporary trends emphasise the need to align organisational goals with employees’ personal needs and values.