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A Gendered Life Course Explanation of the Exit Decision in the Context of Household Dynamics

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  • Dilani Jayawarna
  • Susan Marlow
  • Janine Swail

Abstract

Using a gendered household analysis, we explore the extent to which operating a business upon a flexible basis at specific times in the life course impacts upon an entrepreneur’s exit from their business. Drawing upon UK data and a discrete-time event history model to conduct a life course analysis, we find women caring for young children are more likely to exit given limited returns related to incompatible demands between the time required to generate sufficient returns and caring demands. Limited returns however, were not significant to continuation rates if a male partner contributed a compensatory household income.

Suggested Citation

  • Dilani Jayawarna & Susan Marlow & Janine Swail, 2021. "A Gendered Life Course Explanation of the Exit Decision in the Context of Household Dynamics," Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice, , vol. 45(6), pages 1394-1430, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:entthe:v:45:y:2021:i:6:p:1394-1430
    DOI: 10.1177/1042258720940123
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    References listed on IDEAS

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