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Exploring what makes family firms different: Discrete or overlapping constructs in the literature?

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  • Dawson, Alexandra
  • Mussolino, Donata

Abstract

The theory, research, and practice of family business have evolved significantly over the last quarter of a century. The field has experienced significant transformations; however, scholars are still debating what makes family businesses unique and distinct from nonfamily businesses. Three constructs have been proposed in the literature to address this issue: socioemotional wealth, the essence of family business, and familiness. Through a systematic review of the literature, we analyze these constructs by providing definitions, identifying antecedents, outcomes, and measurements, and by summarizing differences and similarities. We incorporate our key findings in a conceptual model to guide researchers in their future efforts.

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  • Dawson, Alexandra & Mussolino, Donata, 2014. "Exploring what makes family firms different: Discrete or overlapping constructs in the literature?," Journal of Family Business Strategy, Elsevier, vol. 5(2), pages 169-183.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:fambus:v:5:y:2014:i:2:p:169-183
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jfbs.2013.11.004
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