The Disposition-Based Fraud Cycle

This paper reviews the disposition-based fraud cycle (DFC) primarily from the perspective of financial frauds. It suggests that fraud as a human act represents an interaction between organism’s disposition and the circumstances he faces. The DFC model which maps financial fraud as a cycle driven by desire-belief connection is contrasted with the widely accepted paradigm called the Fraud Triangle (FT). A purpose of the analysis is to identify unique fraud-risk factors visible in the DFC model. Empirical evidence from the past studies is discussed to show relevance of the DFC model, and its potential role in preventing and detecting financial fraud. Although the model is applicable to all kinds of fraudulent acts, the focus of this study is on the powerful chief executive with considerable influence within the organization she leads.