Combining theories to investigate the acceptance of accrual accounting
International Journal of Public Sector Management
ISSN: 0951-3558
Article publication date: 21 March 2024
Abstract
Purpose
This paper develops and tests a theoretical model that draws on the Diffusion Contingency Model and the Theory of Human Behavior to explain the factors influencing users’ acceptance of accrual accounting in terms of two distinct dimensions: behavioral intention and usage behavior.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on surveyed data from financial departments and directorates of different Greek general government entities, the paper uses factor analysis to build a theoretical model that assesses the factors influencing behavioral intention to adopt and usage behavior of accrual accounting. Then, it tests the relationship between behavioral intention and usage behavior through structural equation modeling.
Findings
The theoretical model suggests that the expected improvement of the quality of financial information and political and financial support are the most important determinants of behavioral intention. Usage behavior is mainly influenced by the compatibility between the existing legal framework and the new accounting system. The structural equation modeling identifies a statistically significant positive influence of behavioral intention on usage behavior.
Practical implications
The study provides valuable insights regarding the timing and focus of the actions taken by policymakers when designing accounting reforms. Special attention is drawn to the factors influencing behavioral intentions, as these are found to influence usage behavior significantly.
Originality/value
The study extends prior research on the diffusion of accounting innovations by breaking down the diffusion process into intentions-oriented actions aiming to promote accrual accounting and increase acceptance and implementation-oriented actions aiming to facilitate successful implementation.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the anonymous reviewers for their insightful and appreciated feedback.
Funding: There is no funding for this paper.
Citation
Bekiaris, M., Paraponti, T. and Spanou, F. (2024), "Combining theories to investigate the acceptance of accrual accounting", International Journal of Public Sector Management, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJPSM-08-2023-0256
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2024, Emerald Publishing Limited