What do we know about CSR authenticity? A systematic review from 2007 to 2021

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to crystallize the research landscape of corporate social responsibility (CSR) authenticity by systematically analyzing CSR scholarships published in peer-reviewed journals from 2007 to 2021.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative content analysis was used to systematically analyze 52 peer-reviewed articles on CSR authenticity. In particular, this study coded the conceptualizations and operationalizations of CSR authenticity, research contexts, applied theoretical frameworks and constructs associated with authenticity in the CSR scholarships.

Findings

This study’s analysis revealed that CSR authenticity is a multifaceted and multidimensional concept researched in various contexts. Yet, it still lacks clear and consistent conceptualization and theorization. Methodologically, qualitative and quantitative methods have equally contributed to the investigation of CSR authenticity. However, scale development and validation still need to improve.

Research limitations/implications

The sample of this research is limited by the searching method and language restriction. This research contributes to CSR scholarships by describing the growing landscape of CSR authenticity research, identifying key research gaps and offering suggestions for future research.

Practical implications

Practitioners can use the findings as references to develop more authentic CSR activities.

Originality/value

This study is an early attempt to examine the research on CSR authenticity, which has been inconclusive and disorganized, despite the rapid growth of publications in recent years.

Citation

Song, B. and Dong, C. (2023), "What do we know about CSR authenticity? A systematic review from 2007 to 2021", Social Responsibility Journal, Vol. 19 No. 3, pp. 525-548. https://doi.org/10.1108/SRJ-07-2021-0276