The Social Support and Entrepreneurial Motivation in Generation Z: A Correlational Test from the Perspective of Self-Determination Theory

Abstract

This study aims to examine the relationship between perceived social support and entrepreneurial motivation in Generation Z. The study used a quantitative correlational design with a purposive sampling technique, involving 72 Generation Z respondents aged 18–28 years who had entrepreneurial experience. Social support was measured using a modified version of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) with 12 items (α = 0.932) (Zimet et al., 1988), while entrepreneurial motivation was measured using a scale with 8 items based on entrepreneurial motivation indicators (α = 0.907). The assumption test showed a normally distributed residual (Kolmogorov–Smirnov p = 0.200), so it was continued with Pearson correlation analysis. The results showed a strong positive relationship between social support and entrepreneurial motivation (r = 0.710; p < 0.001; 95% CI [0.57, 0.81]). These findings indicate that the higher the perceived social support, the higher Generation Z's motivation to become entrepreneurs. Implications for the development of entrepreneurship programs and research limitations are discussed.