International Journal of Economics and Management Sciences
Vol. 2 No. 1 (2025): International Journal of Economics and Management Sciences

Whistleblowing Behavior Model and Social Influence : A Systematic Literature Review

Erwandy Erwandy (Unknown)
Arissetyanto Nugroho (Unknown)
Harnovinsah Harnovinsah (Unknown)
Darmansyah Darmansyah (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
09 Jan 2025

Abstract

Whistleblowing is a vital mechanism for exposing unethical practices and ensuring accountability in organizations. This systematic literature review explores the interplay between the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and social influence factors—conformity, compliance, and obedience—in shaping whistleblowing behaviour. The review examines empirical and theoretical studies from 2004 to 2024 to identify how TPB constructs (attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control) integrate with social influence dynamics to influence the intention and action of whistleblowing. The findings highlight that attitudes toward whistleblowing, shaped by personal ethics and organizational culture, significantly influence individuals’ willingness to report misconduct. Subjective norms, reflecting the perceived social pressure to act or remain silent, often intersect with conformity and compliance, either encouraging or deterring whistleblowing. Perceived behavioural control, influenced by organizational support structures and fear of retaliation, determines the feasibility of acting. The role of obedience to authority emerges as a double-edged sword, where supportive leadership fosters whistleblowing while hierarchical pressures discourage it. Furthermore, the review underscores the importance of ethical climates and whistle-blower protection mechanisms in mitigating the negative impact of social pressures. It also identifies gaps in existing research, including the limited exploration of whistleblowing in diverse cultural contexts and the lack of longitudinal studies examining long-term impacts. This study contributes to the literature by providing an integrated framework that combines TPB and social influence theories to understand whistleblowing behaviour. It offers practical insights for policymakers and organizational leaders to design interventions that encourage ethical reporting and protect whistle blowers.

Copyrights © 2025






Journal Info

Abbrev

IJEMS

Publisher

Subject

Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Social Sciences

Description

Topics in this journal relate to any aspect of management, but are not limited to the following topics: Human Resource Management, Financial Management, Marketing Management, Public Sector Management, Operational Management, Supply Chain Management, Corporate Governance, Business Ethics, Management ...