Public Accountants` Perceptions of Ethical Work Climate: An Exploratory Study of the Difference Between Partners and Employees within the Instrumental Dimension

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to consider whether the perceptions of the instrumental dimension of ethical work climate of partners (owners) of public accounting firms differ from those of employees. Perceptions of ethical climate are based on the theory developed by Victor and Cullen [1, 2]. Professionals from five public accounting firms located in New York State participated in the study. Findings suggest partners' perceptions of the instrumental dimension of ethical work climate differ from those of employees.