AbstractThis paper explores whether Moroccan family small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) are more or less likely to be socially responsible than nonfamily firms of comparable size. Basing on 20 qualitative case studies, we collected qualitative data during semi‐structured interviews with SME managers in charge of corporate social responsibility (CSR) issues. We then performed a content analysis. Our study provides consistent support for the stewardship perspective and shows that family SMEs are more likely to be socially responsible than nonfamily SMEs. We therefore posit that familySMEs hold distinctive perspectives on socially responsible business behavior as a result of their involvement in both their business and their community. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment