Prior family business exposure as intergenerational influence and entrepreneurial intent: A Theory of Planned Behavior approach

Research indicates that family experiences constitute a powerful socializing influence on the values, attitudes, and behaviors people adopt over the course of their lives. Incorporating theoretical research using the Theory of Planned Behavior [Ajzen, I. Residual effects of past on later behavior: Habituation and reasoned action perspectives. Personality and Social Psychology Review 2002; 6(2): 107–122.] the mediating effects of attitudes towards business startup, perceived family support, and entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) on entrepreneurial intent are tested using a sample of 308 individuals. Consistent with theory, results suggest significant direct and indirect effects of prior family business exposure on entrepreneurial intent, through the mediation variables of attitudes towards business ownership, perceived family support, and ESE. © 2007 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.