Reconceptualizing Tax Compliance Behavior: A Theoretical Matrix Approach

Abstract

Tax compliance behavior is a multifaceted and extensively explored phenomenon within behavioral economics. However, due to its intricate nature, achieving a full grasp of this topic remains a challenge. This paper is motivated by the lack of coherent structure and lucidity in the existing theoretical frameworks employed to elucidate tax compliance behavior. Firstly, this paper puts forth a novel perspective that seeks to transcend the traditional binary framework of taxpayer behavior, which typically categorizes taxpayers as either compliant or non-compliant. Instead, this paper posits that taxpayer behavior may exist along a spectrum spanning from complete compliance to absolute non-compliance. This conceptual shift aims to provide a more nuanced understanding of taxpayer behavior by acknowledging the potential for varying degrees of compliance. Secondly, to address the existing gaps in the theoretical foundations of factors influencing tax compliance behaviour, the paper introduces a theoretical matrix. This matrix is intended to serve as an organized framework that succinctly encapsulates the prevalent theories underpinning studies concerning the determinants of tax compliance behavior. By methodically categorizing these theories based on ‘types of compliance’ and ‘types of factors’ dimensions, the matrix provides researchers and practitioners with a cohesive overview of the diverse factors influencing taxpayer behavior.