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The Role Of Independence In The Effectiveness Of Continuous Auditing, Dereck D. Barr
The Role Of Independence In The Effectiveness Of Continuous Auditing, Dereck D. Barr
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
In this study, I examine whether and how the frequency of internal audits (continuous vs. periodic), functional independence (separate vs. combined internal audit assurance and consulting functions), and the type of earnings management (accrual-based vs. real) affect internal auditors' perception of the likelihood managers will manipulate earnings. I find that earnings management is less likely when the internal audit function uses continuous auditing, regardless of the level of independence. However, the effect of independence is context-dependent such that internal auditors expect that real (accrual-based) earnings management is less likely when the internal audit function is independent (not independent), regardless of …
An Examination Of Issues Related To Professional Skepticism In Auditing, Erin Burrell Nickell
An Examination Of Issues Related To Professional Skepticism In Auditing, Erin Burrell Nickell
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The third general standard of fieldwork requires auditors to maintain a skeptical mindset with regards to the collection and critical assessment of audit evidence. While professional skepticism is frequently referenced by professional standards, a lack of precision in defining the concept presumably leads to variation in how skepticism is exercised in practice. Drawing on theories from the fields of psychology, economics and organizational justice, this dissertation considers different perspectives of what constitutes sufficient professional skepticism and examines how those perspectives differ between audit practitioners and regulators. First, I consider competing perspectives of professional skepticism – neutral versus presumptive doubt – …
Three Studies Investigating The Legal Liability Implications Of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act Of 2002, Jillian Phillips
Three Studies Investigating The Legal Liability Implications Of The Sarbanes-Oxley Act Of 2002, Jillian Phillips
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This dissertation examines the litigation and legal liability exposure of auditors related to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX). Three separate studies were conducted to examine how auditor's litigation exposure is evaluated by potential litigants (lawyers), and how auditor liability is evaluated by jurors, following the bankruptcy of a client. The first study examines whether the auditor's SOX Section 404 reporting decisions influence lawyers' assessments of their litigation exposure. The second study investigates whether voluntary disclosures of significant deficiencies in internal controls within the SOX Section 404 report, and the subjectivity of the internal control judgments made by the auditor, …