Các nhân tố ảnh hưởng đến thái độ hoài nghi nghề nghiệp hướng đến chất lượng kiểm toán nghiên cứu tại việt nam tt ta

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING
UNIVERSITY OF ECONOMICS HO CHI MINH
CITY
-------------Prepared by

NGUYEN VINH KHUONG

FACTORS AFFECTING PROFESSIONAL
SKEPTICISM TOWARD AUDIT QUALITY: THE
CASE OF VIETNAM
MAJOR: ACCOUNTING
CODE: 934.03.01

SUMMARY OF DOCTORAL THESIS

Ho Chi Minh City – 2020


Thesis is completed at:
University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City
Academic Instructors:
Assoc. Prof. Mai Thi Hoang Minh
PhD. Nguyen Dinh Hung
Reviewer 1:
Reviewer 2:
Reviewer 3:
The dissertation will be presented to the Dissertation
Board at university level
At … hours … day…. Month …year…

The thesis can be found at the Library:

INTRODUCTION
The necessity of the research
Professional skepticism is an important concept in audit and assurance
services (Hurtt et al., 2013; Quadacker et al., 2014). Professional skepticism
may cause the auditor to have conflict with clients or to perform additional audit
procedures (Shaub and Lawrence, 1996). The concept of professional
skepticism in the field of auditing remains controversial (Hurtt et al., 2013), with
many concepts proposed by academic researchers (Nelson, 2009; Glover and
Prawatt, 2014). However, one common point among the controversial concepts
is that the skepticism in the profession is the attitude of skepticism. This is in
accordance with the definition given in Vietnamese and international auditing
standards.
The author recognizes the urgency of the topic in both practical and
theoretical aspects. From a practical perspective, the PCAOB report (2008,
2012, 2014) concludes that recent audits, especially during the economic crisis
period of 2008-2012, expressed unsuitable professional skepticism for 40% of
the cause of the above results. Therefore, IAASB (2012) requires the auditor to
demonstrate professional skepticism more clearly throughout the audit through
audit records. Recently, the International Auditing Standards Board (IAASB,
2016) has issued a written call for comment with the title “Enhancing audit
quality in the public interest: a focus on professional skepticism, quality control,
and group audits”. In particular, professional skepticism is considered a core
factor in order to increase the quality of auditing and maintain professional
position after the lawsuits. Therefore, professional skepticism is an essential
attitude for all audits from the perspective of professional associations in the
world and the standards-issuing bodies.
From a theoretical perspective, research on auditor’s professional
skepticism in the field of auditing is of primary concern when financial

statements are at risk of fraud (Bell et al., 2005). Professional skepticism has a
potential influence to the financial statements in many respects and further
causes problems in dealing with the risk of frauds for auditors during the audit.
Previous literature reviews suggest that auditors who trust the database will be
less likely to have career doubts and less likely to uncover financial statements
1


that are fraudulent (Harding et al., 2016). According to the research of Chen et
al (2009), Knechel et al (2013), professional skepticism increases audit quality.
Pofessional skepticism affects the decision-making of the auditor assistants
andauditors when performing an audit, resulting in the professional skepticism
that may impact audit quality.
Research on the nature and factors affecting professional skepticism in
Vietnam has almost not been conducted in Vietnam. In order to meet the
requirements of awareness of professional skepticism, on the basis of research
gaps in previous studies, the requirements of the process of world economic
integration and the situation of professional skepticism, audit quality in
Vietnamese audit firms, the author chooses the topic research: “Factors
affecting professional skepticism toward audit quality: The case of
Vietnam”, which has the urgency in both theoretical and practical aspects to
settle policy recommendations to support managers of auditing firms in
Vietnam, to improve audit quality in Vietnam.
Objectives of the research
- The overall objective of the thesis is to explore the factors that affect
professional skepticism and measure the impact of factors on professional
skepticism to improve the audit quality in the context of Vietnam.
Research questions
To achieve the research objectives, research questions are posed as:
Q1: What are the factors that affect the auditor’s professional skepticism in

Vietnamese auditing firms?
Q2: What are the impacts of the factors on auditor’s professional skepticism
in Vietnamese auditing firms?
Q3: What are the impacts on the auditing quality in in vietnamese auditing
firms?
Objects of the research
The objects of the study in this thesis are the factors that affect
professional skepticism towards audit quality in the context of Vietnamese
society.
Scope of the research
2


Research directed in auditing firms operating in the external audit field in
Vietnam and excluding Big Four (KPMG, EY, PwC, Deloitte). The scope of the
investigation did not consider the state audit and internal audit.
Research Methodology
Research Methodology is used as the exploratory mixed method. The
review of previous studies summarizes background theory to explain the
relationship among research concepts. From there, the author determines the
theoretical gaps to be carried out in this study. Next, the study collects the survey
data to analyse the appropriateness with the theoretical model built.
The scientific and practical significance of the dissertation
- Scientific significance
On the theoretical basis, the thesis has modified the scale based on the scales
inherited from the studies on this topic, for the components of the theoretical model
and testing the measurement model appropriate to Vietnam context. The
dissertation results will be the basis for further studies that can apply the scale to
serve for scientific research works, especially, future research on the topic of the
behavior of auditors.

- Practical significance
Tests the relationship of the study variables in the theoretical model
concluding the prerequisite factors affecting professional skepticism,
contributing to maintaining professional skepticism to increase audit quality.
The Vietnamese auditing firm has taken appropriate measures from the
recruitment policies, assessment of the work of the auditors and the oversight of
the opposite effects, in order to have a timely solution to maintain professional
skepticism throughout the audit work.
Structure of the thesis
Apart from the Introduction, the thesis is divided into 5 chapters with the
following main contents:
Chapter 1: Literature review
Chapter 2: Theoretical framework and research model
Chapter 3: Research methodology
Chapter 4: Research findings
3


Chapter 5: Conclusion and implications.

4


CHAPTER 1
LITERATURE REVIEW
1.1. Overview of studies related to the thesis
Based on the research topic of published publications surveyed, the author
categorizes previous studies around the topic of professional skepticism into
three main research strands as follows:
Firstly, the research that focuses on the purpose of clarifying the concept

of professional skepticism based on psychological theories. The concept of
professional skepticism can be viewed from a research or practical perspective.
However, both of these angles are less volatile, so the research on this topic
focuses on analyzing the constituents of professional skepticism and comparing
these components from different perspectives to build a scale of variables. The
general research published in the leading journal in the field of of auditing
regarding the structure of professional skepticism include: Robinson et al.
(2018); Quadackers et al (2014); Hurtt (2010).
Second, studies that focus on identifying the factors that affect
professional skepticism. This is the most interesting research topic because
professional skepticism is considered as a factor affecting the quality of work of
auditors, auditing quality (Hurtt et al., 2013; Nelson, 2009). The studies on this
topic consider the factors that affect professional skepticism according to the
grouping of factors. Two systematic models of research on this issue in the
leading auditing journal: Auditing journal: A Journal of Practice & Theory
including Hurtt et al (2013); Nelson (2009).
Thirdly, the studies that focus on considering the impact of professional
skepticism on audit quality or other concepts in the audit, such as the auditor’s
behavior. This is an separately considered subject on the professional skepticism
affecting auditing quality. Some studies of this research direction include:
Bowlin et al. (2015); Chen et al. (2009).
In the scope of the research mentioned, the author focuses on presenting
an overview of the factors that affect the professional skepticism, and the impact
of professional skepticism on audit quality on previous studies.
1.2. Views about professional skepticism
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Professional skepticism is a concept that is inconsistent and very
challenging to measure, depending on the point of view, there are different

concepts about professional skepticism.
1.3. Factors affecting professional skepticism
The topics are quite sporadic, and not systematic (Nelson, 2009).
Therefore, the author inherits two studies synthesizing the studies on the factors
affecting the professional skepticism of auditors. Firstly, it is the model of
Nelson (2009) which groups factors according to characteristics, knowledge and
motivation. The next model of Hurtt et al. (2013) was based on Nelson (2009)
and expanded to include four groups of factors: auditor’s characteristics,
financial statements, customer characteristics, and external effects. Therefore,
the author will briefly present the two studies of Nelson (2009) and Hurtt et al
(2013). Next, the author, inherits and reclassifies the factors that affect
professional skepticism according to the subjects that directly affect the
auditor’s professional skepticism, including the auditor's characteristics,
auditing firms’ characteristics, clients’ characteristics and external factors.
1.3.1. International studies
1.3.1.1. Auditor factors
This research strand explores the role of auditors, and code of ethics that
affect the level of professional skepticism.
1.3.1.2. Auditing firm’s factors
The articles on the influence of the audit firm factor on professional
skepticism are quite few. The predominant factor is the influence from the
superior to the degree of professional skepticism.
1.3.1.3. Client’s factors
Client is subject to direct impact on auditors during the audit process. The
previous study focused on the influence of the auditor-client relationship (client
pressure, client sympathy) on the professional skepticism.
1.3.1.4. External factors
Quality management and quality control requirements are a significant
mechanism for auditing quality control and increase public trust in the value and
reliability of audit services. However, very few empirical studies directly

examine the links between quality control and professional skepticism.
1.3.2. Related researches from Vietnam
6


Research in Vietnam has not yet investigated the conceptual nature and
comprehensively investigated this issue. However, a number of representative
articles highlight the importance of maintaining professional skepticism
throughout the audit process.
1.4. The influence of professional skepticism on auditing quality
1.4.1. International researches
The impact of professional skepticism on audit quality is of interest to
professional associations around the world and researchers. Audit standards and
academic research both accept that professional skepticism positively impacts
auditing quality. However, there are currently few empirical studies on this issue
in the world.
1.4.2. Related researches from Vietnam
In Vietnam, the dissertations of Phan Van Dung (2015) and Bui Thi Thuy
(2013) gathered factors affecting audit quality in Vietnam context. In particular,
the methodological approach of the factors affect the auditing quality.
Professional skepticism is considered a component in the methodology of
auditors. Therefore, there has been no research on the impact of professional
skepticism on the audit quality separately.
1.5. Results obtained from previous studies and research gaps
1.5.1. Some remarks from the prior studies
1.5.1.1. The factors affecting professional skepticism
In general, the results of foreign authors on the factors that affect
Professional skepticism include auditor factors, auditing firm factors, client
factors, external factors.
In Vietnam, domestic publications have not focused on the theme of

professional skepticism, and very little research has been done on professional
skepticism. However, the studies agree with the importance of professional
skepticism in the detection of fraud, leading to an increase in audit quality. Only
a publication is out on this issue, but not comprehensive and fails to study the
nature of professional skepticism, and discussesonly a first-order scale and
incomplete impact factors.
1.5.1.2. The impact of professional skepticism on audit quality
Both career associations and researchers conclude that professional
skepticism has a positive influence on audit quality (Knechel et al., 2013).
7


Framework of audit quality recognizes that auditing quality consists of three
parts, including input, process, output (IASSB, 2015).
1.5.2. Research gaps
Firstly, there have been no comprehensive studies on factors affecting
professional skepticism in the context of auditing activities in Vietnam.
Secondly, there have not been quantitative studies to measure the impact
level of professional skepticism factors based on qualitative research of factors
affecting professional skepticism in the context of Vietnam.
Third, there is no study on the direct impact of professional skepticism on
audit quality in the context of Vietnam.
CONCLUSION OF CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2
THEORETIAL FRAMEWORK AND RESEARCH MODEL
2.1. Overview of concepts
2.1.1. Professional skepticism
The International Standard of Auditing No. 200 and Vietnam Audit
Standard No. 200 address the definition of Professional skepticism – An attitude

that includes a questioning mind, being alert to conditions which may indicate
possible misstatement due to error or fraud, and a critical assessment of audit
evidence.
From a neutral perspective, Hurtt (2010) proposes the
definition:professional skepticism is a multi-dimensional individual
characteristic. As an individual characteristic, professional skepticism can be
both a trait (a relatively stable enduring aspect of an individual) and also a state
(a temporary condition aroused by situational variables).
2.1.2. Audit quality
Audit quality is an audit that provides a high level of assurance in which
the auditor has sufficient appropriate and sufficient financial statements to prove
that the financial statements are presented true and fair.
2.1.3. Factors affecting professional skepticism auditor competence
2.1.3.1. Auditor competence
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Auditor competence includes requirements on knowledge, skills,
experience and specialization to help auditors carry out the judging sequence as
a basis for forming audit opinions.
2.1.3.2. Code of ethics
Ethics can be described as a system of principles that govern human
behavior. Ethics has structured values to provide guidance when considered
right or wrong behavior. Professional identity relates to the power of personal
identification with or being involved in a career. Auditors have a professional
commitment that is positively associated with a code of conduct attitude,
including compliance with good practices, standards and ethics.
2.1.3.3. Personal motivation
The motivation is defined as the psychological processes that create the
beginning, orientation, intensity and perseverance of behaviour (Klein, 1989).

Motivation improves when employees operate with definite intentions (Locke,
1997).
2.1.3.4. Influence from superiors
The study of the influence of superiors is done through the guidance of
the auditing firm, the influence of the superior and partner in the decision
making process. Peecher (1996) was one of the first to examine whether a third
party's priority influences the auditor’s decision making.
2.1.3.5. Time pressure
Time pressure is reflected the stress factor that individuals undergo every
day. One of the regular things that auditors find challenging is time pressure.
2.1.3.6. Auditor-client relationship
The importance of client is analysed from many aspects, including cost,
reputation-related risks associated with client size and client vision. Higher
client importance can lead to the development of auditor intentions to retain an
existing client.
2.1.3.7. Legal responsibility and quality control
Regulators influence auditor thinking by emphasizing aspects of the audit
that need improvement, consideration, and appropriate judgment, or completion
of additional audit procedures. During the quality control, the regulator provides
feedback to the auditor and auditing firm. Reports from regulatory agencies will
9


help change behaviour by conveying information about expectations (Ilgen et
al., 1979).
2.2. Overview of background theories
2.2.1. Theory of planned behavior
2.2.2. Theory of social identity
2.2.3. Theory of organizational support
2.2.4. Theory of moral reasoning

2.2.5. Role theory
2.3. Original research model
Figure 2.1: Theoretical model of the factors affecting professional
skepticism toward auditing quality

CONCLUSION OF CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3:
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1. Appropriateness of the research method
This study applied the exploratory approach and confirmed design to
answer research questions. The mixed-method adopts qualitative and
quantitative methods with data collection in Vietnam.
3.2. Research process
10


The author proceeds to apply appropriate research methods to explore and
test the hypotheses. The process is carried out include the followings:
Study theories tobuild appropriate scales and explore new factors qualitative research method.
Preliminary quantitative research - quantitative research method.
Main quantitative research - quantitative research method.
3.3. Research method
3.3.1. Qualitative research method
Objective
A face to face discussion with three expert groups in the audit industry
was conducted to (i) explore new factors that affect the professional skepticism;
(ii) adjusting the items used to measure the research variables (all concepts are
independent variables, dependent variables).
Objects and organizational interview

- Objects: Directors at domestic auditing firms in Vietnam, professional
associations, and scientists in the field of auditing.
- Location: Office of the expert.
3.3.2. Preliminary quantitative research
Objects are practising auditors because they are the persons directly
working in the auditing field and involved in the application of the professional
skepticism.
A preliminary quantitative research method is a preliminary survey of
research objects to check the reliability of the scale designed and adjusted
accordingly in Vietnam. The sample size for this step is n = 100 and was selected
by the convenient sampling method for auditing firms based in Hanoi and Ho
Chi Minh City.
3.3.3. Main quantitative research
The purpose of the main quantitative method is to test the path model of
the factors that affect professional skepticism towards audit quality. The model
has been calibrated to match specific social circumstances in terms of Auditing
field in Vietnam. Objects are important factors, affecting the quality of research.
Therefore, the thesis applies the evaluation of the measurement model to test the
representation hypotheses after performing preliminary assessment using
Cronbach's alpha coefficients and exploratory factor analysis.
11


3.4. Measure the original concept
Auditor competence
Code of ethics
Influence from superior
Auditor-client relationship
Legal responsibility and quality control
Professional skepticism

Audit quality
CONCLUSION OF CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4
RESEARCH FINDINGS
4.1. Background of audit activities in Vietnam
In general, the audit firm has paid attention to improving professional
qualifications and experience for auditing staff, many auditors reach the
international community. However, many auditors have not yet met the
requirements with the newly updated policy mechanism. With the special
features managed by state agencies, the coordination of the Ministry of Finance,
VACPA and auditing firms will help develop auditors and meet industry
requirements.
4.2. Qualitative research results
4.2.1. The suitability of the original scale
Qualitative research was conducted through interviews with 8 experts.
The author interviews the experts by meeting them in person. Experts include
the director of audit firms, regulator and professional associations, lecturers and
scientists who are knowledgeable about the field of auditing.
With the expert group of directors of audit firms, the author collects 6
factors affecting professional skepticism and scale adjustments.
With the second group of experts being regulator agencies and
professional associations. The author collected 5 factors affecting professional
skepticism, adjusting the scale and confirming the relationship between
professional skepticism has a positive impact on the audit quality. However, no
new factors were detected compared to the group of Audit Firms.
12


With the third group of experts being lecturers and scientists from

universities who have deep knowledge in the field of auditing. The author has
collected 6 factors affecting professional skepticism and scale adjustments.
However, no new factors were detected.
4.2.2. Exploraty factor analysis
By discussing with experts, the author explores two more factors
including the personal motivation of the auditing group and time pressure of the
auditing firm. Therefore, the author presents the concepts, the items measure the
two concepts. Both personal motivation and time pressure scales are result and
first-order scale.
4.2.3. Adjusted research model
Through qualitative results, the author established the main research
model as follows:
Figure 4.1: Main research model

4.3. Quantitative research results with a preliminary survey
Through the preliminary survey, the main study will test the theoretical
research model of 9 concepts with 41 items.
Table 4.1: Scale used in official research

Concepts

Sign

Number of
items
13

After preliminary
research

Auditor competence
Code of ethics
Personal motivation
Influence from superior
Time pressure
Auditor-client
relationship
Legal responsibility and
quality control
Professional skepticism
Audit quality

NL2 –
NL5
DD1 –
DD5

4

DL1 –
DL4
CT1 –
CT3
AL1 –
AL3
KH1 –
KH4

4

KS1 –
KS4
HN11 –
HN34
CL1 –
CL4

4

Eliminate the NL1
item
Eliminate the DD2
Unchanged

3

Unchanged

3

Unchanged

4

Unchanged

3

Eliminate the KS2

item

12

Unchanged

4

Unchanged

4.4. Quantitative research results from the main survey
After the preliminary quantitative researchhas been conducted, the results
of the adjusted scales are obtained. The main questionnaire is adopted for the
main research. Research with the analytical unit is auditor, currently working in
auditing firms in Vietnam.
4.4.1. Representativeness of research sample
According to Hair et al. (2016), when using PLS_SEM, the sample size
needs to be 10 times the maximum number of items of the formative scale or 10
times the number of paths in the structural model. Because the model includes
the reflective scales so the minimum sample size is 10 times the number of
paths. There are 8 paths, so the minimum sample size is 80.
Therefore, the number of samples in the main quantitative method is 206,
which is sufficiently representative according to the above analysis.
4.4.2. Descriptive statistics
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Position, Work experience, Gender of auditors.
4.4.3. Results of measurement model
The author analyzed the measurement model twice. The internal

consistency test results and the convergent validity of concepts in the adjusted
measurement model are presented in the table below.
Table 4.2: Adjusted measurement model results

Latent
variable
s

NL

DD

DL

CT

AL

KH

Items

NL2
NL3
NL4
NL5
DD1
DD3
DD4
DD5

DL1
DL2
DL3
DL4
CT1
CT2
CT3
AL1
AL2
AL3
KH1
KH3
KH4

Convergent
validity
Outler
loading
s
0.783
0.665
0.627
0.783
0.829
0.686
0.675
0.756
0.764
0.745
0.725

0.780
0.852
0.693
0.735
0.620
0.705
0.900
0.797
0.804
0.682

Construct
Reliability and
Validity

Discriminan
t Validity

AVE

Cronbach’
s Alpha

Rho_
A

0.51
6

0.689

0.717

Passed

0.54
6

0.730

0.762

Passed

0.56
8

0.747

0.750

Passed

0.58
2

0.652

0.707

Passed

0.56
4

0.636

0.796

Passed

0.58
3

0.650

0.674

Passed

15


KS

HN1

HN2

HN3

CL

KS1
KS3
KS4
HN1
1
HN1
2
HN1
3
HN2
1
HN2
2
HN2
3
HN2
4
HN2
5
HN3
1
HN3
2
HN3
3
HN3
4

CL1
CL2
CL3
CL4

0.826
0.739
0.756
0.777
0.788

0.60
0

0.674

0.699

Passed

0.60
4

0.672

0.672

Passed

0.52

8

0.776

0.777

Passed

0.51
8

0.689

0.698

Passed

0.51
7

0.693

0.711

Passed

0.766
0.707
0.695
0.732

0.744
0.752
0.727
0.645
0.724
0.776
0.633
0.799
0.709
0.724

4.4.4. Results of structure model
16


The research needs to evaluate the statistical significance of the
relationships between the concepts to serve as a basis for accepting or rejecting
the hypothesis. This step is done by calculating estimates and running boostrap
estimations 500 times to determine the significance level.
Figure 4.2: Results of testing the path model

4.4.5. Results discussion
The results of hypothesis testing from the structural model show that
Auditor competence, Code of ethics, Personal motivation and Influence from
superior have a positive impact on Professional skepticism by level of impact
respectively (0.186; 0.233; 0.254; 0.265). The statistical significance levels are
at 0.1%. The coefficients of Time pressure, Auditor-client relationship, Legal
responsibility and quality control have the expected sign but they are not
statistically significant.
Table 4.3: Results of main research hypotheses

17


Hypotheses

Research hypotheses

Results

H1.1

Auditor competence has a positive impact on
Supported
auditor’s professional skepticism.

H1.2

Code of ethics has a positive impact on auditor’s
Supported
professional skepticism.

H1.6

Personal motivation has a positive impact on
Supported
auditor’s professional skepticism.

H1.3

Influence from superior has a positive impact on
Supported
auditor’s professional skepticism.

H1.7

Time pressure has a negative impact on auditor’s
professional skepticism.

Rejected

H1.4

Auditor-client relationship has a negative impact
on auditor’s professional skepticism.

Rejected

H1.5

Legal responsibility and quality control has a
positive impact on auditor’s professional
skepticism.

Rejected

H2.1

Professional skepticism has a positive impact on
Supported

audit quality.
CONCLUSION OF CHAPTER 4
CHAPTER 5
CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

5.1. Conclusion
The main results of the thesis suggest that the following research hypotheses are
supported:

18


Auditor competence, Code of ethics, Personal motivation, Influence from
superior, Time pressure, Auditor-client relationship, Legal responsibility and
quality control, Professional skepticism, Audit quality.


Auditor competence has a positive impact on auditor’s professional
skepticism;



Code of ethics has a positive impact on auditor’s professional
skepticism;



Personal motivation has a positive impact on auditor’s professional
skepticism;



Influence from superior has a positive impact on auditor’s professional
skepticism;



Professional skepticism has a positive impact on audit quality.

5.2. Managerial implications
For auditing firms, auditors
 Firstly, auditing firms demand to sign labour contracts in accordance with
regulations to avoid fraudulent cases in registration for operations and
follow the right regime for employees to help the auditors stay engaged
with the company in the long term.
 Secondly, the auditor's competence should be maintained and updated
through internal training courses of the company. Besides, soft skills are
also essential in the current context. Therefore, negotiation techniques
are essential for auditors. Because if the auditor can convince customers
to change the financial statements information with the cooperation and
continue the service contract, instead of letting customers admit errors
leading to deadlock and loss of customers. Therefore, excellent
negotiation skill will help auditors maintain professional skepticism.
 Third, studies show that requiring auditors to maintain a constant level of
skepticism may not lead to a high chance of detecting fraud. Therefore,
professional skepticism beyond what is emphasized in auditing
standards can take another form, such as critical thinking. Critical
19

thinking is an important element of the individual activity to analyze
and evaluate the substance of an issue through a rigorous assessment
process (Natale and Ricci, 2006).
 Fourth, assessing the results of work is decisive to the promotion of
auditors. Therefore, the design and performance evaluation are very
important in promoting and maintaining professional skepticism.
 Fifth, the review and evaluation activity is carried out throughout the
process of auditing to maintain professional skepticism (Rich et al.,
1997). Therefore, auditing firms may apply a rotation policy of
reviewers of auditing groups regularly to maintain professional
skepticism.
 Sixthly, auditor’s decision-making tools through audit software
programs, analytical tools, depending on the client's business sector,
will help maintain professional skepticism. This is to minimize
priorities when conducting audits and to avoid potential risks.
 Seventh, personal motivation affects professional skepticism through a
decline in efforts to find appropriate evidence. Therefore, establishing
the appropriate personal motivation will better auditors to increase
auditing efforts, leading to the reduction of audit risks. Therefore, the
auditing firm should emphasize the importance of a reasonable level to
avoid performing the audit excessively or below the required level.
 Eighth, professional associations and the general public expect that
auditors adhere to principles of professional ethics rather than legal
responsibility. In addition to providing guidance for ethical decisionmaking, the firm's ethics codes may also provide a range of questions
that auditors may ask themselves to determine whether their decisions
are in compliance with the principles.
5.3. Policy implications
For the regulator, professional associations
Regulator should continue to improve the legal framework for
independent auditing and implement quality control from external auditing

companies in Vietnam in order to maintain audit quality.
With the new situation, VACPA needs to continue changing the content
level, form and improving the quality of training services, training courses to
20


update the knowledge about the nature of professional skepticism for better
understanding of important factors effect on audit quality.
5.4. Limitations and future research directions
The limitation arises from the measurement of the research concept,
which has two views on the state-owned vocational education and the
appropriate level of professional skepticism. Therefore, if using other measures,
it is possible to make comparisons on the level of assessing professional
skepticism and comparing these measurements.
Limited from the relationships among variables in research model, the
research concepts in research model can be related to each other. However, with
the goal of the research is that factors affecting professional skepticism to
improve audit quality have not considered these relationships. Therefore future
research may consider these relationships.
CONCLUSION OF CHAPTER 5
GENERAL CONCLUSION
The interest in professional skepticism is always the research priority of
researchers and professional associations around the world. Despite many
different viewpoints about professional skepticism and audit quality, all of them
have the same viewpoint that professional skepticism has an important influence
on improving audit quality. Therefore, this research is conducted to identify the
factors that affect professional skepticism and the impact of professional
skepticism attitude on audit quality. Thereby, assessing the influence of factors
on the concepts of professional skepticism and audit quality in order to test these
relationships in the Vietnamese context. From the results of the market data, the

author identifies the factors of auditors, auditing firms that affect auditor’s
professional skepticism with regulator and social contexts in Vietnam. Besides,
it also affirms the importance of professional skepticism for audit quality from
the perspective of research in developing countries. The author makes
theoretical and practical contributions based on the research results. In
summary, as research limitations still exist, the research contributes to the
research overview of professional skepticism in developing countries. With the
need for research on professional skepticism both from professional associations
in the world and current researchers, future research directions on the concept
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of professional skepticism and related relationships. Finally, the author hopes
that the content of the thesis is a reference on the subject matter of the auditor
in general for relevant stakeholders.

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LIST OF RESEARCH HAVE BEEN PUBLISHED BY AUTHOR
RELATED TO THE DISSERTATION
1. Nguyễn Vĩnh Khương. 2016. Professional skepticism in appropriate
actions in financial audit, Journal of accounting and auditing, 9, pp. 2729. <Vietnamese version>
2. Nguyễn Vĩnh Khương. 2016. Enhance professional skepticism in
financial audit, Journal of auditing studies, 109 (11), pp.20-26.
<Vietnamese version>
3. Nguyễn Vĩnh Khương. 2017. Determinants of professional skepticism
in Vietnamese auditing firms, Economy And Forecast Review, 15(5),
tr.34-40. <Vietnamese version>
4. Nguyễn Vĩnh Khương. 2018. Evaluation of auditor’s professional

skepticism in financial audit in Vietnam, Journal of auditing studies,
124 (02), pp. 20-28. <Vietnamese version>