The influence of family tradition and psychological traits on entrepreneurial intention

This paper investigates the influence of family tradition and psychological traits on the entrepreneurial intention of university hospitality students in the UK. The empirical study was predicated on the need to consider both socio-demographic variables and especially family background and personality traits. The research also tested the suggestion that risk taking propensity may act as a potential mediator. The findings of the study suggest that family entrepreneurial background and innovation influence the intention to start a new business; that there is positive relationship between tolerance of ambiguity and risk taking propensity; and a negative relationship between locus of control and risk taking propensity. The paper emphasizes the importance of taking a more holistic approach when researching the factors that influence entrepreneurial intention.

► We investigate the influence of family tradition and psychological traits on the entrepreneurial intention of hospitality students. ► The empirical study was predicated on the need to consider both socio-demographic variables and especially family background and personality traits. ► The results emphasize the importance of taking a more holistic approach when researching the factors that influence entrepreneurial intention.