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The relationship of cognitive flexibility to entrepreneurial intentions and the mediating role of information search

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  • Marwan Al-Shammari
  • John James Cater III
  • Kevin James

Abstract

This study examined cognitive flexibility as a critical factor in developing entrepreneurial intentions and assessed the role of information search in this process. We surveyed 421 students in a south-western US regional university, measuring the relationship between cognitive flexibility and entrepreneurial intentions mediated by search effort and search persistence. Employing structural equation modelling, we found a direct positive correlation between cognitive flexibility and entrepreneurial intentions. Then, our results indicated a mediating effect of search effort on the relationship between cognitive flexibility and entrepreneurial intentions, but search persistence did not have this effect. Our results accentuate that possessing high cognitive flexibility enables entrepreneurs to manage new ventures' uncertainty and volatility better. Our results also suggest that cognitive flexibility allows entrepreneurs to consider a wide range of alternatives and perspectives, leading to improved decision-making. We contribute to the entrepreneurship literature by postulating a refined understanding of the relationship between cognitive flexibility and entrepreneurial intentions by empirically identifying and testing the mediating effects of information search behaviours.

Suggested Citation

  • Marwan Al-Shammari & John James Cater III & Kevin James, 2026. "The relationship of cognitive flexibility to entrepreneurial intentions and the mediating role of information search," International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 58(4), pages 470-493.
    • Handle: RePEc:ids:ijesbu:v:58:y:2026:i:4:p:470-493
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