Mapping Corporate Social Responsibility in Family Firms: A Bibliometric Review across Countries

Abstract

The field of CSR has witnessed considerable growth and established itself as a significant subject in family business studies. However, despite previous reviews exploring this topic from various angles, there remains a crucial gap in understanding the influence of diverse regulatory frameworks and social, environmental, and managerial values on the development of literature production and research streams across different regions. This gap holds particular significance for comprehending the latest advancements in this dynamic research field, particularly in emerging economies, where cultural and regulatory environments play a substantial role in shaping the attitude of family firms toward CSR. To bridge this gap, this paper conducts a comprehensive review of empirical studies focusing on sustainability in family firms. These studies are organized based on the country of study, and our review, based on a conjunct database derived from the Scopus and World of Science, encompasses 308 articles published between 1996 and 2023. Utilizing bibliometric software and adhering strictly to our inclusion criteria, we systematically grouped these articles into three distinct clusters: North American studies, European studies, and Asian studies. We found significant differences among areas regarding the main objectives, methodologies, and results of the research. This study comprehensively maps key themes and findings in family business sustainability, aiding researchers in organizing knowledge and guiding future investigations. Recognizing regional influences is crucial to ensuring representative and applicable research outcomes.