Control Variables in Management Research

Abstract

The use of control variables to improve inferences about statistical relationships in data is ubiquitous in management research. In both the micro- and macro-subfields of management, control variables are included to remove confounding variance and provide researchers with an enhanced ability to interpret findings. Scholars have explored the theoretical underpinnings and statistical effects of including control variables in a variety of statistical analyses. Further, a robust literature surrounding the best practices for their use and reporting exists. Specifically, researchers have been directed to report more detailed information in manuscripts regarding the theoretical rationale for the use of control variables, their measurement, and their inclusion in statistical analysis. Moreover, recent research indicates the value of removing control variables in many cases. Although there is evidence that articles recommending best practices for control variables use are increasingly being cited, there is also still a lag in researchers following recommendations. Finally, there are avenues for valuable future research on control variables.