THE EFFECTS OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND SELF-EFFICACY ON ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTION: A STUDY ON UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

Abstract

Emotional intelligence, self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intention are significant factors that shape
entrepreneurs’ success and performance. In this study, the connection between these concepts was
examined, and additionally, the mediating role of self-efficacy in the relationship between
emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial intention was analyzed. Within the scope of the research,
data were collected through a questionnaire method from a total of 375 undergraduate students
studying in different departments and classes at Gebze Technical University. In addition to
demographic and descriptive questions, scales derived from the literature were utilized in the
created questionnaire. The SPSS software package was employed for the analysis of the collected
data (reliability, factor, regression). The findings demonstrated that both emotional intelligence and
self-efficacy have a positive impact on entrepreneurial intention. Furthermore, the study revealed
that self-efficacy plays a mediating role in the relationship between emotional intelligence and
entrepreneurial intention. This study aims to emphasize the significance of emotional intelligence
and self-efficacy in shaping the entrepreneurial intention of university students and to contribute to
the relevant literature in the field.