The aim of the research is to reveal the role of internal motivations in the mechanism driving corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy in construction corporations. A framework was constructed based on neo-institutional theory, and measurement scales were developed through interviews. Questionnaire surveys and hierarchical regression analysis were carried out to verify the framework in a sample of huge Chinese construction corporations. The results reveal the mediating and moderating roles of ethical leadership, managerial moral motivation, and managerial autonomy in driving CSR strategy, which will enrich the application of neo-institutional theory in future CSR research. Furthermore, this study developed indicators, scales, and analytical frameworks with full consideration of the theoretical generality and the industrial particularity of Chinese construction corporations, which deepened the understanding of the driving mechanism of CSR strategy in the construction industry.The findings have practical implications for HCCCs in terms of developing CSR strategy and ultimately improving their CSR performance.

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