She said they're often reluctant to disclose problems because they worry about repercussions such as their children being taken from them.

The law can make companies disclose impending problems.

This, he said, could help disclose problems that the auditors would otherwise miss.

But around the time Enron disclosed serious financial problems last month, the company froze the assets in the plan because of an administrative change.

The report also disclosed problems in how the logging was actually carried out.

But, Lorimar contends, an investigation by its auditors disclosed major problems with the video unit's books.

Maybe we should call press conferences, disclose problems like sexual harassment and explain the solutions we've committed to.

Such companies have a legal obligation to disclose significant problems with their partners, particularly if they are to have a management role.

That company recently disclosed financial problems related to difficulties in its soft-drink and fast- food operations.

Apple, which first disclosed possible problems over options in June, said it would delay its most recent quarterly filing.