Abstract:

This study extends the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) by examining the decision-making process of individuals starting a new business, incorporating social and personal factors. Building on the previous qualitative research, this quantitative study tests hypotheses derived from Ajzen and Fishbein's TPB framework, focusing on various influencing factors. Data was collected via an online survey targeting entrepreneurs, resulting in 176 complete responses. Analyses reveal that an economically oriented education significantly influences entrepreneurial attitudes, materialistic values are linked with subjective norms, and resilience positively affects perceived behavioral control (PBC). These findings suggest that economically oriented education fosters entrepreneurial intentions, emphasizing the importance of integrating entrepreneurial content into educational programs. Furthermore, the positive relationship between materialistic values and subjective norms implies that promoting entrepreneurship as a means of achieving material wealth may enhance entrepreneurial intentions in societies with strong materialistic cultures. Resilience's vital impact on PBC highlights the need for training programs to develop resilience in aspiring entrepreneurs. While parts of the extended TPB model are validated, factors such as social influence, the need for recognition, the educational level, conscientiousness and openness did not considerably impact the entrepreneurial decision to start a new business. This study will contribute to the refinement of TPB in the context of entrepreneurship and will provide valuable insights for educational initiatives and political decisions to foster entrepreneurial endeavors.