Does Environmental Values, Beliefs and Norms Effect Social Entrepreneurial Intention? A Study Based on an Emerging Country Context

Abstract

Despite the potentiality of youths as future social entrepreneurs, research on the key determinants of their social entrepreneurial intentions in developing countries (Malaysia) remains lacking. This study aims to evaluate the effects of altruistic and traditional values on normative beliefs, awareness of consequences and ascription of responsibility, which further effect personal, descriptive and injunctive social norms; and finally effect of norms on social entrepreneurial intentions. Empirical data were elicited from 517 university students of Malaysian higher education institutions with a web-based survey. Statistical analysis was subsequently performed through structural equation modelling to examine the hypotheses and relationships between the variables. The altruistic and traditional values shows a significant positive effect on normative beliefs, which together with awareness of consequences, ascription of responsibility descriptive and injunctive social norms effect personal norms. Finally, findings also revealed a positive and significant effect of personal norms on social entrepreneurial intentions among Malaysian university student. The holistic social entrepreneurship model outlined in this study could facilitate socioeconomic development through sustainable and cost-effective practices. The study outcomes offer relevant knowledge and insights for researchers, current social entrepreneurs and organisations, educational institutions, government agencies, and potential entrepreneurs to develop successful strategies in pursuing social endeavours.