Environment and Social Psychology

Maping theoretical frameworks linking CSR communication to corporate reputation in mainland China: A systematic literature review

Li Zhe

Department of Communication, Faculty of Modern Languages and Communication, University, Putra, 43400, Malaysia

Syafila Kamarudin

Department of Communication, Faculty of Modern Languages and Communication, University, Putra, 43400, Malaysia 2 Institute for social science studies, Putra Infoport, University Putra, 43400, Malaysia

Jasmin Arif Shah

Department of Agriculture Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, University, Putra, 43400, Malaysia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.59429/esp.v10i5.3672

Keywords: corporate social responsibility (CSR) communication; corporate reputation; systematic literature review; Chinese context, theoretical framework

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Abstract

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) communication has become a strategic tool for reputation management. This research presents a systematic literature review of research (2015–2024) between CSR communication and corporate reputation in the Chinese context. We followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines to identify 20 relevant peer-reviewed studies. The review addresses three key questions (1) the state of this research in terms of scope and trends, (2) the theoretical frameworks applied and the influence of Chinese cultural factors, and (3) the main findings on how CSR communication practices impact corporate reputation in China. Across studies, effective CSR communication – characterized by authenticity, transparency, and alignment with cultural values – is generally found to enhance corporate reputation by building stakeholder trust and identification. However, perceived motive hypocrisy or misalignment between talk and action can damage reputation. Notably, Chinese cultural norms and the media environment shape both communication strategies and stakeholder responses. Discuss how classic theories are affirmed or extended in the Chinese context, and provide an integrative framework linking CSR communication to reputation outcomes.

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