Innovation Business Management and Accounting Journal
Vol. 5 No. 2 (2026): April - June

Exploring Whistleblowing Intention: The Interplay of Social Norms, Moral Intensity, and Professional Commitment among Auditors

Rafrini Amyulianthy (Universitas Pancasila)
Khalida Utami (Universitas Pancasila)
Aura Rahdiatul Rafidah (Universitas Pancasila)
Fazlida Mohd Razali (Universiti Teknologi Mara)



Article Info

Publish Date
06 Jun 2026

Abstract

Whistleblowing plays a vital role in uncovering organizational misconduct, but its success depends on individuals' willingness to report wrongdoing. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior, this study examines how subjective norms and moral intensity affect the intention to whistleblow, with perceived professional commitment acting as a mediating factor. The research focuses on internal auditors in Jakarta, Indonesia, a region facing ethical challenges and increased regulatory oversight. Data from 86 respondents from government inspectorates and multinational firms were analyzed with PLS-SEM in SmartPLS 4.0. The results show that subjective norms and moral intensity do not directly affect whistleblowing intention. Instead, perceived professional commitment has a strong, significant influence, fully mediating the effects of the other variables on whistleblowing intention. These findings emphasize the importance of internalized professional values in guiding ethical behavior, indicating that social and moral influences are channeled through professional identity, leading to ethical actions. The study expands the Theory of Planned Behavior by including professional commitment as a key psychological factor. Practical recommendations include developing ethics programs that reinforce professional identity and aligning organizational structures with ethical standards. Enhancing ethical commitment among auditors can promote greater transparency and integrity in organizations.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ibmaj

Publisher

Subject

Description

Innovation Business Management and Accounting Journal is a multidisciplinary international journal in the fields of entrepreneurial innovation, business practice, management, and accounting. Innovation Business Management and Accounting Journal published four times in year: January-March, ...