Exploring the mediation role of perceived behavioural control and subjective norms in the relationship between psychological capital and entrepreneurial intention of university students

Abstract

Entrepreneurship as a career option plays a fundamental role in creating employment, productivity and economic growth. In this context, Entrepreneurial University" emerges in the universities, based on promoting entrepreneurship especially among its students. Taking into account the theory of planned behaviour, the purpose of this paper is to determine the direct relationship between psychological capital and entrepreneurial intention as a career option, and to analyse the mediating role of perceived behavioural control and subjective norms in this relation. On the basis of a literature review, an integrative model is proposed to explain the relationship between the studied variables. The results obtained show the mediating role played by perceived behavioural control and subjective norms in the relationship between psychological capital and entrepreneurial intention. Management education must take into account the development of programs that encourage or enhance psychological capital of students, since behaviours, thoughts and actions can be learned and developed in people. Additionally, programs developed at a political level and aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, can take into account this variable as a filter in the selection of people to participate in them.