Theoretical Framework for Corporate Disclosure Research
Abstract
This paper discusses the theoretical frameworks for a corporate disclosure research. It then compares and contrasts views of what constitutes a theory. There was no single view of theory; there were differences in approaches and interpretations. The conception of a theory and its relationship with research is discussed as theory and research had a circular relationship building on each other. Quantitative and qualitative methods of research and their contribution to theory are assessed. Both were found to contribute to theory building, theory testing, substantiating, or refuting their propositions. Although, positive accounting theory has grown as one of the most significant accounting research program, the broad theories of accounting includes normative theory as well. The review of the literature revealed that there were a number of theories associated with corporate accounting and disclosure, amongst them were agency theory, signaling theory, the accountability theory, legitimacy theory, contingency theory, stakeholder theory, and resource dependency theory.Submission of an article implies that the work described has not been published previously (except in the form of an abstract or as part of a published lecture or academic thesis), that it is not under consideration for publication elsewhere, that its publication is approved by all authors and tacitly or explicitly by the responsible authorities where the work was carried out, and that, if accepted, will not be published elsewhere in the same form, in English or in any other language, without the written consent of the Publisher. The Editors reserve the right to edit or otherwise alter all contributions, but authors will receive proofs for approval before publication.
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