EAJ (ECONOMICS AND ACCOUNTING JOURNAL)
Vol. 9 No. 1 (2026): EAJ (Economics and Accounting Journal)

A Bibliometric Review of Signaling Theory in Sustainability Research

Sayuti, Alfian (Unknown)
Muliani (Unknown)
Lestari, Ayu Ambang (Unknown)
Aryani, R. Ayu Ida (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
15 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric review of how signaling theory has been applied in sustainability research during the period 2015–2025. Although signaling theory has been widely used to explain how firms reduce information asymmetry through sustainability communication, its rapid expansion has led to conceptual fragmentation. To address this issue, the study analyzes Scopus-indexed publications using VOSviewer to map scientific production, influential authors, collaborative networks, co-citation patterns, and keyword clusters. The results show a significant growth of sustainability-related signaling studies, with strong contributions from the United States, China, and several European countries, reflecting a globally interconnected research landscape. Citation networks highlight foundational works on sustainability reporting, legitimacy, greenwashing, and environmental performance as core theoretical anchors. Keyword co-occurrence analysis reveals that signaling theory is increasingly integrated with themes such as ESG disclosure, CSR, corporate governance, environmental values, consumer behavior, and green innovation, indicating a broad and interdisciplinary application of sustainability signals. However, the findings also show persistent inconsistencies in how signals are conceptualized, particularly regarding the credibility and authenticity of sustainability disclosures. Overall, this study offers an updated intellectual mapping of the field, clarifies dominant theoretical patterns, and identifies conceptual gaps. Future research is encouraged to strengthen theoretical integration, expand focus on emerging markets, and explore new forms of digital and AI-driven sustainability signaling.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

EAJ

Publisher

Subject

Economics, Econometrics & Finance

Description

Economics and Accounting Journal (EAJ) is a publication media of scientific research in the field of accounting published by S1 Study Program of Accounting at Faculty of Economics, University of Pamulang periodically every four months with the aim as a medium of communication and disseminate ...