How Has Public Service Motivation Been Studied? A Scientometric and In-Depth Analysis

This article traces the development of Public Service Motivation literature from 1996 to 2024 using a bibliometric analysis of 720 Scopus-indexed articles. It reveals trends, collaboration networks, and thematic clusters. Qualitative synthesis shows public service motivation as a dynamic construct influenced by institutions, leadership, and relational contexts. While core values: compassion, altruism, and commitment to the public interest remain stable, their impacts vary contextually. PSM continues to evolve as both a scholarly concept and policy tool, highlighting the role of human motivation in fostering ethical, effective, and socially responsive governance.