The Relationship of Achievement Motivation to Entrepreneurial Behavior A Meta-Analysis.doc

The Relationship of Achievement Motivation to Entrepreneurial Behavior A Meta-Analysis
HUMAN PERFORMANCE1>. 17(1).95-117
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The Relationship of Achievement Motivation to Entrepreneurial Behavior: A Meta-Analysis
ChristopherJ. Collins
School of Industrial and Labor Relations
Cornell University
Paul
Department of Psychology
University of Maryland
Edwin A. Lode
Robert School of Rusiness
University of Maryland
Entrepreneurship is a major factor in the national economy; thus, it is important to understand the motivational characteristics spurring people to e entrepreneurs and why some are more essful than others. In this study, we conducted a meta-analysis of the relationship between achievement motivation and variables associated with entrepreneurial behavior. We found that achievement motivation was significantly correlated with both choice of an entrepreneurial career and entrepreneurial performance. Further, we found that both projective and self-report measures of achievement motivation were valid. Finally, known group studies yielded a higher validity coefficient than did individual difference studies.
Nearly all supporters of the capitalistic system would agree that the encouragement of essful innovations and entrepreneurship is beneficial for the continued health and long-term growth of a nation's economy (Schumpeter, 1961). Further, small businesses account for over 50% of private sector employment and .
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Requests for reprints should be sent to ChristopherJ. Collins, school of Industrial and Labor Relations, Comell University, Ithaca,NY -mail: ******@
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gross domestic product (Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy,2003).Because entrepreneurship is a dominant factor in the economy, researchers have examined a number of factors that may explain entrepreneurial a