easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
CRISC Practice Question: Uses control self-assessments (CSAs) as part of…
An organization uses control self-assessments (CSAs) as part of its monitoring program. The results from the latest CSA show that the majority of controls are rated as effective, but an internal audit reveals several control failures in those same areas. What is the MOST likely reason for this discrepancy?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many candidates assume a technical or procedural cause (like scope or documentation errors) rather than recognizing the inherent human bias in self-assessment, which is a classic CRISC concept in the Risk and Control Monitoring and Reporting domain.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
CSA respondents may have a bias toward reporting favorable results
Control self-assessments (CSAs) rely on the subjective judgment of process owners and operators, who may have a natural tendency to report favorable results to avoid scrutiny or additional work. This self-reporting bias is a well-known limitation of CSAs, leading to an overstatement of control effectiveness. The internal audit, being independent and objective, is more likely to uncover actual control failures, explaining the discrepancy.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
The CSA scope was narrower than the audit scope
Why it's wrong here
CSA scope is usually broader; narrower scope would not cause discrepancy.
- ✗
The CSA questionnaire contained documentation errors
Why it's wrong here
Errors would likely affect all responses, not just cause favorable bias.
- ✗
The inherent risk level of the processes decreased after the CSA
Why it's wrong here
Inherent risk change does not directly affect control effectiveness ratings.
- ✓
CSA respondents may have a bias toward reporting favorable results
Why this is correct
Self-assessment can lead to overly optimistic ratings.
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