Final answer:
The most common motivation for management fraud is financial pressures on the organization. Managers may rationalize fraudulent activities as necessary for the benefit of the company, but these actions are both illegal and unethical, ultimately harming the company and stakeholders.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common motivation for management fraud is financial pressures on the organization, option C. This motivation is influenced by various factors including personal gain, the desire to meet financial targets, or the need to hide the company's true financial health.
Management fraud often occurs when individuals in a company feel the pressure to manipulate financial results. This can be caused by internal factors, such as the need to meet earnings forecasts, or external factors, such as market expectations. The individuals involved may rationalize their actions as being for the benefit of the organization or its shareholders, as they attempt to maintain or increase the company's stock price. However, these justifications do not legitimize fraudulent activities, which are illegal and unethical. By manipulating financial records or engaging in other deceptive practices, managers not only put the company at risk legally and financially but also erode trust with stakeholders.
It's important to note that management fraud can have many causes, including but not limited to the three listed in the question (job dissatisfaction, challenge of committing the perfect crime, and vices like a gambling habit). Each case of fraud has its unique motivations, but the overarching theme is often related to financial pressure.