AN INVESTIGATION OF SOCIOLOGICAL INFLUENCES ON THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAITS AND ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATION OF USED CAR ENTREPRENEURS

Abstract

Sociological influences are an important factor in the success of an entrepreneurial venture. Sociological factors such as education and a supportive environment may have a moderating impact on the relationship between psychological traits and entrepreneurial orientations. A cross-sectional study was conducted on used-car entrepreneurs in a Southern Metropolitan Statistical Area (SMSA). Results of the study support significant positive relationships between psychological traits and entrepreneurial orientations. Moderated regression results support that levels of education moderate the relationships of three of the four sub-constructs of psychological traits and entrepreneurial orientations. A discussion of the findings is provided as well as directions for future research.