What gave you that idea: Factors impacting on students perceptions of accounting and accountants

It is widely acknowledged that stereotypical accountants are likely to be depicted in an unflattering manner. This is a matter of concern for professional accounting bodies and educators alike given extant research posits that stereotypes play a role in the choice of career pursued. Using exploratory factor analysis, this paper contributes by providing empirical evidence on dual aspects of accounting stereotypes, namely those (1) relating to accounting work and (2) relating to accountants personal characteristics. It provides additional evidence on the effect factors such as ethical position, prior contact with accounting, and gender, have on the formation of these stereotypes.