TRENDS IN SEM UTILIZATION AND REPORTING PRACTICES IN THAI BUSINESS RESEARCH (2020-2024): A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This research adopted a systematic literature review methodology to analyze trends in SEM utilization and reporting practices within Thai business research from 2020 to 2024. A well-established seven-step process guided the review. First, the research questions were defined: 1) to identify business articles employing SEM analysis and 2) to analyze trends in SEM type application. Second, the TCI Group 1 database and 14 relevant business journals were chosen. Step 3 utilized the keywords "SEM" and "Structural Equation Model" for the search. The initial search yielded 214 articles, which underwent a rigorous screening and assessment process (steps 5-7). This review process revealed key findings: 1) a rising trend in covariance-based SEM (CB-SEM) use and a decline in variance-based SEM (VB-SEM), 2) a prevalence of complex models with constructs for abstract variables and mediating effects, 3) inconsistent reporting of direct and indirect effects in articles using mediating variables, 4) a lack of documented discriminant and construct validity in approximately half the articles, particularly those employing CB-SEM, and 5) concerning deviations from accepted statistical procedures in model modifications (47.73%).