Title: The Dynamic Construction of Entrepreneurial Identity: A Dual-process Model
Abstract: Although entrepreneurship research has emphasized the importance of entrepreneurial identity, little is known about how entrepreneurial identity is constructed. We draw on identity theory to theorize and examine a dual-process model that explains the dynamic construction of entrepreneurial identity of nascent entrepreneurs. We hypothesize that small wins in terms of perceived entrepreneurial progress facilitate the construction of entrepreneurial identity through both an affective process and a behavioral process. The dual-process model was largely supported by a 10-wave longitudinal study conducted with 41 entrepreneurs every half-month over five months (335 observations). Perceived entrepreneurial progress had a positive effect on subsequent entrepreneurial identity. Both entrepreneurial passion and entrepreneurial effort mediated the effect of perceived entrepreneurial progress on subsequent entrepreneurial identity. Overall, our findings establish the dynamic nature of entrepreneurial identity of nascent entrepreneurs and provide a new theoretical perspective to understand the dynamic processes underlying construction of entrepreneurial identity over time.
Publication Year: 2016
Publication Date: 2016-01-01
Language: en
Type: article
Indexed In: ['crossref']
Access and Citation
Cited By Count: 1
AI Researcher Chatbot
Get quick answers to your questions about the article from our AI researcher chatbot