Abstract

This study investigates the association between board gender diversity and various dimensions of CSR. We develop a theoretical framework, where specific dimensions of CSR have various predicted associations with board gender diversity. Our empirical results show that board gender diversity has an impact on the following CSR dimensions: community, diversity, employees, and environment. Our findings support the notion that women exhibit more communal traits, demand more CSR information before they take investment decisions, and are more concerned about stakeholders than their male counterparts. Our results also contribute to the current “push” for greater gender diversity of boards by regulators and policy makers, as we demonstrate some of the benefits associated with board gender diversity.

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