This study explores the role of maternal and paternal influence in shaping the entrepreneurial identities and motivations of female founders. It seeks to fill the gap in the literature by examining how different forms of parental influence affect female entrepreneurs.
This research uses a narrative analysis approach to examine the life stories of 22 female entrepreneurs from Germany, Switzerland, Canada, and Brazil. Through in-depth interviews, the study identifies key themes that illustrate the impact of parental influence on entrepreneurial identity formation.
The analysis identifies seven distinct themes: “Mom’s Dream,” “Absence,” “Equality First,” “Never Enough,” “Overprotected,” “Atypical Role Model,” and “The Rock.” These themes highlight the complex interplay between family dynamics and entrepreneurial motivations, demonstrating how parental roles and attitudes significantly contribute to forming entrepreneurial identity.
The study’s findings are based on a relatively small sample size from four countries, which may limit the generalizability of the results. Future research could expand the sample and explore diverse cultural contexts to enhance understanding. Longitudinal studies could also provide deeper insights into the evolving impact of parental influence on entrepreneurial identity over time.
The findings offer valuable insights for designing targeted support programs for female entrepreneurs. Mentorship programs can address gaps in parental support, while entrepreneurship education can highlight the interplay of maternal and paternal influences in fostering confidence and resilience. Encouraging parents to support their daughters’ entrepreneurial ambitions can help build confidence and resilience in future female entrepreneurs, contributing to a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
This study advances identity theory in entrepreneurship by integrating family dynamics into understanding entrepreneurial identity formation. It highlights the dual influences of mothers and fathers and their complementary contributions to resilience, confidence, and ambition. The research also provides a nuanced perspective on gender dynamics within entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of family context.
