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A meta-analysis of the antecedents of entrepreneurial well-being

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  • Yu, Xiaoyu
  • Meng, Xiaotong
  • Stockdall, Kyle
  • Lanivich, Stephen E.
  • Cao, Gang

Abstract

Entrepreneurial tasks are often stressors that can diminish an individual’s well-being; however, entrepreneurs may be able to manage these stressors and protect their well-being. We conducted a systematic meta-analysis of literature on the antecedents of entrepreneurial well-being. Using data from 143 studies with 165 independent samples, this meta-analysis revealed that antecedents in five categories—personal, work, financial, social, and context characteristics—are significantly associated with entrepreneurial well-being. The results show that the antecedents of negative and positive well-being differ, suggesting two discrete constructs. Contrary to theoretical expectations, financial stressors and work resources were not found to be related to positive and negative well-being, respectively. Furthermore, social stressors were stronger antecedents of positive well-being than all other general job resource antecedents, except work resources. Our findings have important implications for common theoretical perspectives on entrepreneurial well-being and future research in this area.

Suggested Citation

  • Yu, Xiaoyu & Meng, Xiaotong & Stockdall, Kyle & Lanivich, Stephen E. & Cao, Gang, 2025. "A meta-analysis of the antecedents of entrepreneurial well-being," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 200(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jbrese:v:200:y:2025:i:c:s0148296325004114
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jbusres.2025.115588
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