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In the Eye of the Storm: Entrepreneurs and Well-Being During the COVID-19 Crisis

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  • Mikaela Backman
  • Johannes Hagen
  • Orsa Kekezi
  • Lucia Naldi
  • Tina Wallin

Abstract

In this paper, we examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the well-being of entrepreneurs. We surveyed a representative sample of Swedish entrepreneurs and wage employees at different stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey data, combined with register data, show that the COVID-19 outbreak has a negative effect on the well-being of entrepreneurs in terms of increased perceived stress. However, this negative effect is weaker for entrepreneurs who feel younger than their chronological age and entrepreneurs who are geographically distant from the epicenter of the crisis.

Suggested Citation

  • Mikaela Backman & Johannes Hagen & Orsa Kekezi & Lucia Naldi & Tina Wallin, 2023. "In the Eye of the Storm: Entrepreneurs and Well-Being During the COVID-19 Crisis," Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, , vol. 47(3), pages 751-787, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:entthe:v:47:y:2023:i:3:p:751-787
    DOI: 10.1177/10422587211057028
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    well-being; entrepreneurs; crisis; subjective age; location; JEL-codes: C83; I31; J10; L26.;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C83 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - Survey Methods; Sampling Methods
    • I31 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - General Welfare, Well-Being
    • J10 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - General

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