American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Practice Exam

Can personal relationships affect a CPA's objectivity?

1. No, personal relationships do not matter

2. Yes, they can negatively affect objectivity

3. Only if disclosed

4. It depends on the nature of the relationship

The correct answer is: Yes, they can negatively affect objectivity

Personal relationships can significantly impact a CPA's objectivity, which is a cornerstone of ethical professional conduct in accounting. Objectivity requires CPAs to maintain impartiality, avoid conflicts of interest, and act in the best interest of their clients and stakeholders. When a CPA has a personal relationship with a client or a related party, it may lead to bias in judgment or decision-making, ultimately compromising the integrity of their work. For instance, if a CPA is personally connected to a client—be it a friend, family member, or close associate—they may unconsciously favor that client's interests over those of others or the industry standard. This could manifest in leniency in financial reporting or a reluctance to provide an unbiased opinion on the client's financial situation. Such biases not only undermine the CPA's professional responsibilities but can also damage the credibility of the profession as a whole. While some may argue that relationships can be disclosed or that the nature of the relationship matters, it's important to recognize that the mere existence of a personal relationship introduces a potential for bias, thus affecting objectivity. Therefore, it is essential for CPAs to remain vigilant about the impact of personal connections and to manage or avoid situations that could compromise their impartiality.