The Impact of Personality Traits and Internal Locus of Control on Entrepreneurial Intention

Abstract

A country’s economic growth and development are closely linked to entrepreneurship and innovation, which is why entrepreneurs are recognized as one of the key drivers of the economy. Moreover, job creation, employment and innovation of products and services not only affect the na­tional economy but also the global economy. Having that in mind, it is com­prehensible why the ability to understand and predict entrepreneurial in­tention (EI) turned into a central category that is widely researched in the literature. The main goal of this PRISMA-guided systematic literature review is to iden­tify, present and qualitatively analyse relevant papers regarding entrepre­neurial intention, personality traits and especially the internal locus of con­trol. Moreover, other goals are to highlight the importance and influence of personality traits and the internal locus of control on entrepreneurial inten­tions and to present the findings regarding the interrelatedness of entrepre­neurial intention, internal locus of control and personality traits. This article uses a systematic review according to the PRISMA statement guidelines with stringent selection criteria to include relevant articles on the impact of personality traits and internal locus of control on entrepre­neurship (i.e. entrepreneurial intentions). The two largest scientific databas­es, i.e. Scopus and Clarivate Web of Science databases have been explored with the key phrases „PERSONALITY TRAITS“, “INTERNAL LOCUS OF CON­TROL” and “ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTION”. This PRISMA method led to a total of 9 relevant papers regarding the impact and influence of personali­ty traits and internal locus of control on entrepreneurship (i.e. entrepreneur­ial intentions). The scientific contribution of this paper is mirrored in the presentation of these relevant articles, their findings and in raising awareness among aca­demic members, researchers and governments across the globe regarding the traits that impact entrepreneurial intentions, with a special focus on the findings regarding the internal locus of control. This article provides practi­cal implications for national governments regarding their entrepreneurial policies, support system and climate.