Corporate social responsibility concealment strategy and the ineffectiveness of social accounting

Purpose: This study aims to examine the effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) concealment strategies on the inefficiency of social accounting. The significance of this research lies in understanding the underlying mechanisms through which companies attempt to present a favorable image of their social performance, while such strategies may in practice reduce transparency and undermine the effectiveness of the social accounting system. Methodology: The statistical population consists of all companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange from 2012 to 2023. Among them, 324 firms were selected as the research sample, resulting in a total of 3888 firm-year observations. The Present study is applied in terms of its objective, and in terms of methodology, it is a descriptive correlational and ex post facto study. The research hypotheses were tested using multiple regression within a panel data framework, employing EViews 12. Findings: The results demonstrate that all components of CSR concealment strategies including financial performance, commercial strategy, legal and regulatory conditions, stakeholder influence, and managerial personal motives have a positive and significant impact on the inefficiency of social accounting. Originality: The findings indicate that concealment strategies can be considered influential factors contributing to the weakening of social accounting effectiveness. Accordingly, understanding these mechanisms holds particular importance for policymakers and corporate managers seeking to enhance transparency and social accountability.