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Risk Propensity, Self-Regulation, and Entrepreneurial Intention: Empirical Evidence from China

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Abstract

Drawing on a self-regulation perspective, we develop and test a theoretical model linking risk propensity to entrepreneurial intention through the mechanisms of entrepreneurial self-efficacy and regulatory focus. Using survey data collected from a sample of 210 employees and managers in China, the results indicated that entrepreneurial self-efficacy and promotion focus (but not prevention focus) are positively associated with entrepreneurial intention. Furthermore, these two self-regulatory mechanisms partially mediate the relationship between risk propensity and entrepreneurial intention. Implications for entrepreneurship research and practice are offered.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Management, University of Science and Technology of China, 96 Jinzhai Road, Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China

    Jibao Gu, Lingyu Hu & Jianlin Wu

  2. School of Business, Clarkson University, 8 Clarkson Street, 5790, Potsdam, NY, 13699, USA

    Augustine A. Lado

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  1. Jibao Gu
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Correspondence to Lingyu Hu.

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Gu, J., Hu, L., Wu, J. et al. Risk Propensity, Self-Regulation, and Entrepreneurial Intention: Empirical Evidence from China. Curr Psychol 37, 648–660 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-016-9547-7

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