Expectation gap: analysis of the social perception of the responsibilities of the independent auditor

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5007/2175-8069.2020v17n45p66

Abstract

This research analyzed the perception of Brazilian society regarding the responsibilities of the independent auditor relative to what is prescribed by the regulatory standards of the profession. The sample was formed by 370 participants, and social perception was measured using a Likert scale. The statements were based on auditors' responsibilities based on industry standards and were allocated to the constructs fraud, noncompliance, communication and internal control, refined by factor analysis. The chi-square test indicated an association with the most realistic expectations, and the Kruskal-Wallis test identified a significant difference in means among the groups. Regarding social perception, the highest level of knowledge of auditing and accounting are associated with more realistic expectations regarding auditors’ responsibilities. The results indicate the need for society to learn about the real responsibilities of the auditor, which would contribute to reducing disputes between auditors and those being audited and reinforcing the importance of communication between them and audit regulatory bodies.

Author Biographies

Dyliane Mourí Silva de Souza

Mestre em Ciências Contábeis (PPGCC/UFPB)

Rossana Guerra de Sousa, Professora do Departamento de Finanças e Contabilidade (UFPB)

Doutora em Ciências Contábeis (UnB/UFPB/UFRN)

Marilia Augusta Raulino Jácome

Doutoranda em Ciências Contábeis (UFPB)

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Published

2020-09-28

How to Cite

Souza, D. M. S. de, Sousa, R. G. de, & Jácome, M. A. R. (2020). Expectation gap: analysis of the social perception of the responsibilities of the independent auditor. Revista Contemporânea De Contabilidade, 17(45), 66–81. https://doi.org/10.5007/2175-8069.2020v17n45p66

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Articles