Dark triad personality, motivational dynamics and nascent entrepreneurs entrepreneurial intentions: cross-country comparison

This research explores the relationships between the dark triad, motivational dynamics, and entrepreneurial intentions, as well as the moderating effect of the country on these relationships. Using a cross-sectional design, the study utilizes a sample of 701 new entrepreneurs from Turkey (n = 368) and Kosovo (n = 333). The findings indicate that narcissism positively influences entrepreneurial intentions. Additionally, psychopathy and Machiavellianism negatively impact motivational dynamics, while narcissism has a positive effect. Furthermore, the positive effects of motivational dynamics on entrepreneurial intentions have been confirmed. Mediation analysis reveals that individual motivations partially mediate the relationship between the dark triad and entrepreneurial intentions. Finally, the research results show that the country plays a moderating role in the relationships between narcissism and entrepreneurial intentions, personal attitudes and entrepreneurial intentions, psychopathy, and perceived behavioral control, and the need for achievement and narcissism with personal attitudes. Our study provides theoretical contributions as well as policy and managerial implications in the emerging field of entrepreneurship.