A Dynamic Model of Entrepreneurial Identification and Dis-Identification: An Emotions Perspective

Abstract

Despite recognition of the centrality of emotions in entrepreneurship, little attention has been given to role of emotions in the development of entrepreneurial identity or enactment of entrepreneurial role. The contribution of the chapter is in the development of a dynamic model of the process leading to identification or dis-identification as an entrepreneur. In this chapter, we develop a dynamic model of the process leading to identification or dis-identification as an entrepreneur. We theorize that the driver behind an individual’s decision to become an entrepreneur, and their significant emotional experiences in the entrepreneurial role, influence the likelihood of following an identification or dis-identification cycle. Specifically, our framework proposes that positive emotions strengthen approach motivation and identification with the role, while negative ones foster avoidance motivation and dis-identification. We argue that contextual embeddedness can prompt transition between these two cycles. Our theorization provides new insights into methods of analyzing the role of emotions in the entrepreneurial process, more specifically in the process of entrepreneurial identity crafting. These insights also can be translated into studying the crafting of any professional identity.

Citation

Markowska, M., Härtel, C.E.J., Brundin, E. and Roan, A. (2015), "A Dynamic Model of Entrepreneurial Identification and Dis-Identification: An Emotions Perspective", New Ways of Studying Emotions in Organizations (Research on Emotion in Organizations, Vol. 11), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 215-239. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1746-979120150000011009