FROM LOCUS OF CONTROL TO ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTION: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF SELF-EFFICACY AMONG FINAL-YEAR UNDERGRADUATES

Abstract

This study examined the mediating role of self-efficacy in the relationship between locus of control and entrepreneurial intention among university undergraduates in South-East Nigeria. The study was guided by Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory. A correlational research design was adopted, and data were collected from 620 undergraduates selected from universities in South-East Nigeria. Measures of locus of control, self-efficacy, and entrepreneurial intention were administered to the participants. Data were analysed using Hayes mediation analysis. The findings showed that locus of control significantly predicted entrepreneurial intention and self-efficacy. Self-efficacy also significantly predicted entrepreneurial intention. Furthermore, mediation analysis revealed that self-efficacy significantly mediated the relationship between locus of control and entrepreneurial intention. The indirect effect was significant, while the direct effect of locus of control on entrepreneurial intention remained significant after self-efficacy was introduced, indicating partial mediation. The findings suggest that students’ beliefs about their ability to control life outcomes may contribute to stronger entrepreneurial intentions partly by enhancing their confidence in their ability to perform entrepreneurial tasks. The study recommends that universities should strengthen entrepreneurship programmes that develop students’ self-efficacy, personal agency, and confidence in their entrepreneurial capabilities.