The determinants of Indonesian student's intention and commitment to entrepreneurship: A multilevel study

Abstract

This research investigates the influence of attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control on entrepreneurial intention, grounded in the theory of planned behavior. Additionally, this study explores the mediating role of entrepreneurship plan enactment in the relationship between entrepreneurial intention and entrepreneurial commitment. The research sample comprises 344 students from 21 universities across Indonesia, selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). The findings reveal that attitude and subjective norms significantly and positively influence entrepreneurial intention, supporting the theory of planned behavior. However, perceived behavioral control surprisingly shows a negative effect on entrepreneurial intention, contrary to previous findings. Furthermore, entrepreneurship plan enactment negatively mediates the relationship between intention and commitment. These results suggest that while students may exhibit favorable attitudes and be influenced by social support to pursue entrepreneurship, internal perceptions of control and the demands of strategic planning may hinder their long-term commitment. The findings imply that Indonesian universities and policymakers must address psychological barriers and provide practical training to strengthen entrepreneurial self-efficacy. Institutions should develop programs that go beyond knowledge dissemination by facilitating real-world entrepreneurial experience and mentorship. These insights contribute to the theoretical development of entrepreneurial behavior by highlighting the complexity and dynamic nature of entrepreneurial intention and commitment, especially in emerging economies. Future research should consider longitudinal designs and examine students from diverse academic backgrounds to better understand how entrepreneurial mindsets evolve over time.