The area of personality research in entrepreneurship has received significant attention in recent years, cumulating in a number of meta-analyses (cf. Brandstätter, 2011). Though different samples have been compared using the Five Factor Model with its Big Five personality traits (Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism), so far no study has combined the three distinct samples of entrepreneurs (ENT), students in long-term entrepreneurship education programs (EEP), and, non-entrepreneurs (NENT), with the aim of testing a ranking pattern. A quantitative-deductive research strategy was employed to apply existing theory and draw conclusions. Data was collected from three samples via a social survey questionnaire (total n = 47). Big Five trait scales were constructed from responses to a 50-item short-statement self-rating instrument. Measureable differences in the Big Five personality traits between the three samples were identified. The EEP group exhibited similar scores on the Openness to Experience and Agreeableness scale, while showing lower scores for the traits Conscientiousness, Extraversion and Neuroticism. The three groups did not show a ranking pattern across the five tested personality traits. Gender differences became apparent in both the sample compositions as well as the Big Five trait scores. Females were underrepresented in the entrepreneurs’ group, and showed significantly lower scores for Neuroticism and Openness, and a higher score for Extraversion. Based on the results the authors draw conclusions concerning the potential benefit for future university programs in entrepreneurship education.
Brodie et al. (Tue,) studied this question.