Predicting accounting choice through the lens of positive accounting theory (PAT)
Accounting can be perceived as having two functions: that of producing information for
decision makers and that of distributing the results of production. Both functions have wealth
effects for stakeholders of the organization. The information influences the evaluation of
projects and the control of management (Bushman and Smith, 2001), and its distribution
influences wealth through, for example, determining the amount available for dividends.