WHISTLE BLOWING: A NARRATIVE REVIEW AND FUTURE GUIDELINES

Abstract

This narrative review aims to discuss future guidelines for whistleblowing. We focus on “what is whistleblowing and how has the literature defined it ?”; “what drives the whistle-blower?”; “how can financial rewards improve whistleblowing?”; and “what is the role of financial penalties in whistleblowing?” We also highlight gaps in the recent literature. Whistleblowing is a complex process that requires further research attention. Value orientation, sociodemographic and organizational characteristics, and financial incentives have been shown to explain and predict whistleblowing behaviour; however, the mixed results in past studies have led to a complicated and fragmented picture. This review aims to bring new insights to researchers in the whistleblowing field, so we can advance the literature, and, consequently, mitigate misconduct.

Keywords: Whistleblowing, Narrative Review, Whistle-blower Characteristics, Financial Incentives, Future Research.