The Effect of Perceived Pressure on Occupational Fraud among Insurance Companies in Kenya

Purpose: Insurance companies have recurrently fallen prey to fraudulent activities, as criminals actively target them with the aim of illicitly benefiting from premium payments and other forms of payments which they do not rightfully deserve. The study assessed the effect of perceived pressure on occupational fraud in insurance companies in Kenya. Methodology: The study adopted the explanatory research design. The target population comprised of the 58 insurance companies that are registered under the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA). The validity and reliability of the research instruments was tested before the actual data is collected. The validity and reliability of the research instruments was tested before the actual data is collected. The study adopted stratified random sampling procedure. The sample size for the study was 384 employees. The study collected primary data through Semi –structured questionnaires and interview guides. The data collected was then edited, coded and analyzed using the SPSS v27 statistical software. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to determine mean, standard deviation, frequency counts and percentages which was also be presented in output tables as results. Inferential statistics involved simple and linear regression and correlation analyses. The research findings were presented in tables and graphs. Findings: The findings were both the correlation and regression results. (r = 0.666, R2= 0.444; β = 0.578, p < 0.05) showed there is a statistically significant relation between perceived pressure and occupational fraud. Unique Contribution to Theory Practice and Policy: The study recommended that insurance companies should implement robust financial wellness programs and counseling services to help employees manage financial stress, especially during economic challenges.