INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL SUPPORT, EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, MINDFULNESS AND SEX ON ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTION AMONG YOUTH CORPS MEMBERS IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examines influence of social support, emotional intelligence, mindfulness and sex on entrepreneurial intention among Youth Corps Members in Benue State. The study employed an Ex Post Facto research design among a sample of 365 participants made up of 220 (60.03%) males and 145 (39.07%) females with ages ranging from 19-30 years (SD=25). Participants were drawn from the population of Youth Corps Members through a probability method of simple random sampling technique. Four standardized psychological instruments namely: Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support; Emotional Intelligence Scale; Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale; Entrepreneurial Intention Scale and Demographic Information Questionnaire were used. Data collated were analysed using regression analysis and t-test. Results revealed that social support, emotional intelligence and mindfulness significantly and positively predicted entrepreneurial intention among Youth Corps Members in Benue State; There was nosignificant sex difference in terms of entrepreneurial intention among Youth Corps Members. Study recommended amongst others that, Youth Corps Members should be provided with the necessary social support by the family, friends, significant others and Government to aid them start their own business; there is a dire need for youths to regulate, control and interpret their emotions accurately as these are keys to promote emotional growth and entrepreneurial intention.