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The selection, use, and reporting of control variables in international business research: A review and recommendations

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  • Nielsen, Bo Bernhard
  • Raswant, Arpit

Abstract

This study explores the selection, use, and reporting of control variables in studies published in the leading international business (IB) research journals. We review a sample of 246 empirical studies published in the top five IB journals over the period 2012–2015 with particular emphasis on selection, use, and reporting of controls. Approximately 83% of studies included only half of what we consider Minimum Standard of Practice with regards to controls, whereas only 38% of the studies met the 75% threshold. We provide recommendations on how to effectively identify, use and report controls in IB studies.

Suggested Citation

  • Nielsen, Bo Bernhard & Raswant, Arpit, 2018. "The selection, use, and reporting of control variables in international business research: A review and recommendations," Journal of World Business, Elsevier, vol. 53(6), pages 958-968.
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:worbus:v:53:y:2018:i:6:p:958-968
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jwb.2018.05.003
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