In this study we investigate the Selection-Socialization Theory and the Inverted-U Phenomenon
in moral reasoning of CPAs in industry practice. We also provide additional data for CPAs in
public practice, where prior studies have reported mixed results. Using the Defining Issues Test
DIT to measure moral reasoning, we find no significant differences in the P-scores of CPAs in
industry and public practice and no effect for professional rank. Thus, we find no evidence of
selection-socialization or the Inverted-U Phenomenon for CPAs in either industry or public practice.